Transcript No Slide Title

Ergonomics

An Overview of
Repetitive Motion
and Cumulative
Trauma Injury
reduction in the
workplace.
What is ergonomics?


Ergonomics is a science that focuses on
human capabilities and limitations in the
design of jobs, workstations, tools and
equipment.
Ergonomics programs seek to reduce
Cumulative Trauma and Repetitive Motion
Injuries. (CTI’s and RMI’s)
Common Injuries
associated with CTI’s
and RMI’s

When the space
between the wrist
bones and ligaments
narrows and
compresses the
median nerve.
Common Injuries
associated with CTI’s
and RMI’s

Low Back strain - over
exertion of the muscles
in the lower back.
Caused by taking the
muscle beyond its
normal range of motion
or by repetitive twisting
or stooping.
What can be done to
prevent injuries?


Establish ergonomics
An Ergonomics Program should include:
 Hazard Identification
 Job Analysis
 Training
 Equipment
 Medical Management
 Program Evaluation
Hazard Identification

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Management commitment and employee
participation are critical.
Review employee complaints (from safety
meetings or interviews) and injury logs to
identify potential problem areas.
Evaluate Work Stations

As you look at the work
station, ask the
following questions:
 Is there excessive
wrist movement?
 Is there excessive
vibration?
 Is there repetitive
lifting (especially
over chest height)?
Evaluate Work Stations

As you look at the work
station, ask the
following questions:
 Is the employee
required to sit or
stand for long
periods of time?
 Are any awkward
postures required?
 What are the
temperatures in the
work environment?
Identify and Correct
Problems


If problems are found, work with
employees, safety personnel, medical
personnel, and management, to develop
solutions.
Understand that minimal changes to work
stations yield tremendous results in
alleviating problem areas.
Sitting and Standing
Solutions

Some simple solutions may include:
 Changing the height of a table or chair to
allow plenty of clearance between the top of
legs and bottom of table or desk.
 Placing padding on a floor surface to reduce
leg strain.
 The chair used should adequately support
your posterior, back legs, and permit
smooth movement.
 Desk and chair should allow easy range of
motion at workstation.
 Placing raw materials where they are easy to
reach.
 Workstation height should be adjustable
and determined by the activity involved.
Training


Solution may be achieved
through employee training.
 Back Care
 Posture
 Job Rotation
 Pre-Work and Break Time
Exercise
 Proper use of braces,
belts, and other safety
devices.
Knowledge is a powerful tool
in the prevention of CTI's/
RMI’s.
Safety Equipment

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PPE
 Wrist Braces
 Back Belts
 Gloves
 Shoes
Material Handling
 Hand Trucks
 Adjustable Work Tables and Chairs
 Conveyors
Office/Computer
 Video glare reduction
 Adjustable equipment
Medical Management

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Establish a baseline - this is done by
evaluation of employee injury history or
by pre-employment physical
examinations.
Monitor employee injury data to match the
employee to the job.
Encourage employee “wellness”
 Exercise programs
 Nutrition
 Frequent check-ups
When appropriate, use exercise and work
hardening in the treatment program for
employees with CTI’s / RMI’s.
Regulations

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OSHA currently has a proposed
regulation on ergonomics.
California has adopted CCR 8:5110 as
their ergonomics standard.
Check state plans for variations.
Summary Points
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The most common injury in the workplace
is the sprain/strain injury.
Effective ergonomic programs can
minimize the number of sprain/strain
injuries.
In most cases, the solutions to ergonomic
problems are not cost prohibitive and do
not require major design changes.
Employee participation and management
commitment are critical to the success of
the program.