rutherford county ergonomics fall 2008. so what is ergonomics? … the science and practice of...
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Rutherford County
Ergonomics
Fall 2008
So What is Ergonomics?
…the science and practice of designingjobs and workplaces to match thecapabilities and limitations of the human body.
Ergonomics means: “designing the job to fit the worker, as
opposed to the worker fitting the job”
What are the Benefits?
Ideally, Ergonomics…….
Makes the job safer by preventing injury and illness
Makes the job easier by adjusting the job to the worker
Makes the job more pleasant by reducing physical and mental stress
Course Outline:
Objectives: Define Ergonomics and its benefits
Identify certain types of Ergonomic areas
Suggest solutions to potential work problems
5-Question Quiz at end for comprehension
2 Certain Types
Work-Related Musculo-Skeletal Disorders (WMSDs) Frequent or awkward lifting of heavy objects,
loads, etc. Pushing, pulling or carrying loads Working in awkward postures
Office Ergonomics Computer workstations
Risk Factors Time Frame
Duration of exposure Frequency
How often the motion is repeated Intensity
Weight of items lifted and relocated
Alternatives to Lifting:
Reducing Low Work:
Raise and/or tilt the work for better access
Use a stool for ground level work
Alternate between bending, kneeling, sitting and squatting
Alternatives to Lifting:
Reducing High Work:
Use an elevated work platform or rolling stairs
Use tools with longer handles
Limit overhead storage to infrequently used items
Bring work down to a more comfortable level and tilt for easier access
Office Ergonomics
Risk Factors Leaning forward at your desk
Typing with wrists at odd angle
Raising shoulders while typing
Reaching to use mouse
Twisting neck to look at monitor or phone
Lifting objects from below waist or above shoulders
Ways to Help Yourself Avoid leaning forward at your Desk
Maintain a natural “S” curve of your spine
Sit up straight and do not slump
Sit close to your workspace
Keep feet supported
Get up periodically and stretch
Some Warning Signs Discomfort
Pain
Numbness
Tingling
Tightness, loss of flexibility
Swelling
Symptom Recognition & Reporting
Report Symptoms if:
Pain is persistent, severe or worsening
Pain radiates
Symptoms include numbness or tingling
Symptoms keep you from sleeping at night
Teamwork Look at jobs in a different way
Come up with solutions
Work with solutions
Take part in Training
Take responsibility for changing the way you do your job
Help to ensure efforts are successful
5 Keys to Remember1. Ergonomics can help improve your job
2. WMSDs can happen in jobs with risk factors
3. Risk Factors can be reduced and WMSDs prevented
4. Reporting symptoms early is important!!
5. You can help your department put ergonomics changes into place
Quiz
Click here to take a quick five question quiz.