The Importance of Ergonomics.
The Importance of Ergonomics.
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Ergonomics is the study of work performance with an emphasis on worker safety and productivity. It is derived from the Greek words Ergo (work) and Nomos (law). The goal of ergonomics is to mitigate the risks or hazards that can contribute to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs).
In the United States, MSDs were the cause of 30% of days away from work cases, and resulted in a median 12 days away from work in 2018 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2020). Proper ergonomics can help reduce the number of absentee days among workers and decrease overall costs for companies with proper ergonomic programs in place. It is estimated that for every $1 spent on ergonomics and safety, there is a $3-6 return on investment (ROI). This is because proper ergonomic programs can help reduce absenteeism, turnover rate, and expenses related to MSDs.
The Ergonomic Process made simple.
The Ergonomic Process made simple.
i. ASSESS the job
What do assessments look like?
The beginning of implementing ergonomic solutions starts with assessing the work tasks, environment, and workers completing the task. There are many components that contribute to assessing a job. These components combine to provide insight into areas that can be improved to mitigate the risk of WMSDs.
ii. PLAN the intervention
What are interventions?
The intervention is the solution to identified risks and hazards that could lead to a WMSD. Interventions are categorized via the Hierarchy of Controls. Common interventions include worker rotation, ergonomic training, and physical changes to the environment.
iii. IMPLEMENT the intervention
What happens next?
Once an intervention has been identified to address a hazard or risk, it can be implemented. A team is required to ensure proper intervention implementation. Once an intervention has been put in place, it should be reassessed to make sure it has adequately reduced hazards and risk factors. If remaining risks are identified, further controls should be implemented.
Assessment Components
Assessment Components
Observation of work tasks
Assessment of work area
Review of information (OSHA logs, absentee records, etc.)
Insight from workers completing tasks via interview or questionnaire
Completion of common formalized assessments (D-2, W-1, REBA/RULA, etc.)
Hierarchy of Controls
Hierarchy of Controls
Controls are listed from most effective to least effective
Elimination: total removal of hazard or risk
Substitution: Replacement of hazard or risk
Engineering controls: physical changes to the environment or tools to reduce risk
Administrative controls: procedures, policies, or training provided to workers to reduce risks or hazards
PPE: equipment to protect workers
Common Team Members for Implementation
Common Team Members for Implementation
Ergonomist
Workers
Workplace Health Professionals
Workplace Safety Departments
Management
Engineering Departments
The best time to start improving your workplace was yesterday. The next best time is today.
The best time to start improving your workplace was yesterday. The next best time is today.
Resources:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2020, May 1). Occupational injuries and illnesses resulting in musculoskeletal disorders (MSDS). U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. https://www.bls.gov/iif/factsheets/msds.htm
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