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Ergonomics

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THE ERGONOMIC PROCESS� There are 2 approaches to ergonomics:

Pro-active intervention (NIOSH Model) – better choice of preventing injuries

Reactive intervention – treating injuries and then taking corrective action

Most common causes of injuries – poor lighting, standing for long periods, reaching too far, heavy lifting

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Ergonomics vs. Body Mechanics

� Ergonomics - science of designing job, machine, or process to fit the worker.

� Body Mechanics – correct positioning of body for given task (e.g. using strongest muscles for lifting)

NIOSH Responsibilities

� They study work-related musculoskeletal injuries (look at OSHA 300 logs)

� Inspect employee training logs

� Conduct research on posture, seating, space, adjustable work stations, lighting (glares)

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Good Body MechanicsUse strongest muscles

Take Breaks

Have a broad base of support

Avoiding twisting

Avoid overstretching

Use footrests

R or L handed?

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Good body mechanics – Don’t bend at waist

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Good body mechanics – Push/pull rather than lift

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Good body mechanics – Use safety/back belts

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Who must adhere to ergonomics?

� All employees – including:

� Managers

� Employees with desk jobs

� Especially those with repetitive, heavy lifting, and standing all day tasks

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Areas with frequent, repetitive injuries (e.g. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, tendinitis)

� Computers

� Athletic injuries

� Texting

� Scanning at stores

� Carrying heavy objects (waitressing)

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Other ergonomic examples

� Lower work stations (avoid step ladders)

� Lumbar cushions/elbow rests

� Allow short breaks

� Rubber mats

� Minimize standing

� Adjustable

� Work station slightly lower than eye level

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Proper industrial lighting

� Lighting levels that are too high/low make production tasks difficult, cause

� worker fatigue and present dangerous environments

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MODIFY THE REST OF THE PROCESS

� Modify the tasks.

� Modify the process.

� Modify the machine.

� Modify the workload.

� Modify the workstation.

� Modify the worker attitude

� Modify the work environment.