edger operator (booth) tool kit - fwsn.org operator_booth.pdf · 1 imirpprogram coordinated by: in...

1

IMIRP program coordinated by:

In cooperation with the Workers’ Compensation Board of British Columbia

Common Industry Jobs (CIJs)

Edger Operator(Booth) Tool Kit

Council ofForestIndustries

IndustrialWood & AlliedWorkers ofCanada

AdvancedErgonomicsInc.

© 1998 IMIRP Society Edger (Booth) TOC 2

EDGER OPERATOR (BOOTH) TOOL KITTable of Contents

OVERVIEW 6

Job Summary 6

Physical Demands 6

Mental Demands 6

Major Variations 7

Minor Variations 7

PHYSICAL DEMANDS ANALYSIS 8

PDA General Instructions 8

PDA Table of Contents 9

Task List 10

Company Profile 12

Work Organisation 13

! Task Description 13

! Organisational Factors 14

Workstation Characteristics 15

! Dimensions & Layout 15

! Flooring, Displays and Seating 16

Equipment & Machinery Controls 17

Physical Demands 18

! Whole Body Physical Demands 18

! Body Postures 19


! Hand Grips 22

Manual Material Handling 23

! Hand Tools 24

Environmental Conditions 25

! Work Environment 25

! Location of Workstation 26

! Temperature 26

Personal Protective Equipment 27

Appendix A – Weight of Wood Equation 28

Appendix B – Regional Map 30

RISK FACTOR IDENTIFICATION CHECKLIST 31

Job History 33

Neck 34

Shoulder 35

Elbow 37

Wrist/Hand 39

Low Back or Hip/Thigh 42

Knee 44

Ankle/Foot 45

Characteristics of Objects Being Handled 46

Environmental Conditions 46

Work Organisation 47


WORK MANUAL 48

Work Manual Table of Contents 50

Injury Education 51

! Body Parts at Risk 52

! Major Risk Identification 53

Neck 55

Neck/Shoulder 57

Elbow/Wrist 59

Wrist 62

Wrist/Hand 65

Low Back 67

Ankle 71

! Summary of Body Parts at Risk 73

! Risk Factors by Body Part 76

Injury Prevention 77

! Suggested Solutions 78

! Risk Control Key 79

! Workstation Design 80

Working Reaches 80

Working Heights 82

Seating 83

Foot Pedals 85

Additional Workstation Design Options 87


! Additional Work Practices 89

! Characteristics of Objects Being Handled 92

Size and Shape 94

Load Condition and Weight Distribution 96

Container, Tool and Equipment Handles 97

! Environmental Conditions 98

! Work Organisation 98

! Summary of Solutions 99

MSI SAFETY GUIDE 103

Neck 103

Neck/Shoulder 104

Elbow/Wrist 105

Wrist 106

Wrist/Hand 107

Low Back 108

Ankle 109

See Disclaimer in PDA & Work Manual © 1998 IMIRP Society Edger Booth Overview 6

Edger Operators are responsible for the breakdown of lumberinto suitable sizes for further mill processing. Ripping lumberlengthwise into narrower widths does this. In the process,wane edges are removed, wide widths are reduced, and thelumber grade is raised, either by removing gross defects, or byisolating them for removal further downstream. The boothoperator produces the highest yield by selecting the rightwidths from the controls on the console and adjusting theposition of the laser beams with the associated joysticks andlevers.

Refer to the Physical Demands Analysis for more detail.

The physical demands of the Edger Operator may include:

a) Repetitive motions of the shoulders, neck, arms, wrists, andeyes (must view several monitors at once)

b) Awkward postures of the neck, shoulders, and wristsc) Pushing/pulling lumber to uncross jam-upsd) Lifting/lowering lumber to uncross jam-upse) Continual standing/sitting

The Edger Operator has to determine the maximum yield froma piece of lumber. To do this, the operator must view thelumber and decide how to get the best possible yield, and thenuse the necessary controls accordingly. Co-ordination of thesedecisions and actions must be made in a relatively short periodof time. Because of this, the Edger Operator position can bevery visually and mentally demanding.

Overview

Edger Operator (Booth)

JobSummary

PhysicalDemands

MentalDemands

See Disclaimer in PDA & Work Manual © 1998 IMIRP Society Edger Booth Overview 7

With different mills, the following major variations may befound:

1) The Edger Operator may have to:a) Edge the lumberb) Unjam any crossed lumberc) Clean photo eyes/scannersd) Clean the booth

2) Hand tools used may include a:a) Picaroonb) Chain sawc) Pike pole

3) General worker postures while edging may include:a) Sittingb) Standingc) Sit/standing

With different mills, the following minor variations may befound:

1) The pace that the operator works depends upon the mill. Theaverage work pace is 9-12 pieces/minute. This pace may be:a) Machine-pacedb) Self-paced

2) Equipment operated may include:a) An edger machineb) A conveyorc) Transfer chains

MajorVariations

MinorVariations

© 1998 IMIRP Society Edger Booth PDA 8

PDA General Instructions: Edger Operator (Booth)

This Physical Demands Analysis (PDA) identifies the physical demands of the Edger Operator(Booth) job as assessed by IMIRP ergonomists. The information reported was collected from asample of Edger Operators (Booth) in the BC Sawmill Industry. Where possible, state-of-the-artequipment and techniques were used in data collection and analysis to increase accuracy.However, some information is based on third party comments that are often subjective and notsubject to verification.

Subsequent changes to the work process may reduce the validity of any pre-existing physicaldemands analysis. The IMIRP Society accepts no responsibility for the use or misuse of thePhysical Demands Analysis, or for the accuracy of the PDA as it applies to any specificworkplace.

To make the PDA specific to your workplace, determine which of the tasks identified are presentin your mill. For each section, check off the items (e.g., tasks, tools, etc.) listed that reflect theEdger Operator (Booth) job at your mill.

Rehabilitation professionals are encouraged to verify and update critical information through theclient and through workplace sources to ensure that the content (e.g., tasks, weights of objectshandled, etc.) accurately reflects the job.

This PDA was generated from information collected in 1997.

Disclaimer

The BC sawmill IMIRP documents were developed by Advanced Ergonomics Inc. (AEI) based on analysesconducted in a number of voluntary, participating sawmills in British Columbia and should be considered

applicable only to the BC sawmill industry. Modification to these documents may reduce their usefulness and/orlead to hazardous situations. Individuals or committees wishing to make Physical Demands Analyses (PDAs) site-specific, or wishing to implement options from the Work Manuals, are advised to first complete the two-day OHSCand Supervisor Ergonomics Training Session. Modifications to a PDA must be within the scope of competence of

those individuals making the changes and must be reported to any rehabilitation professional using the PDA.Neither AEI nor the IMIRP Society accepts any responsibility for the use or misuse of these documents.

Physical Demands Analysis



PDA Table of Contents

Task List...................................................................................................................10

Company Profile ......................................................................................................12

Work Organisation...................................................................................................13

Task Description................................................................................................13

Organisational Factors.......................................................................................14

Workstation Characteristics.....................................................................................15

Dimensions & Layout........................................................................................15

Flooring, Displays and Seating .........................................................................16

Equipment & Machinery Controls ..........................................................................17

Physical Demands ....................................................................................................18

Whole Body Physical Demands ........................................................................18

Body Postures ....................................................................................................19

Hand Grips.........................................................................................................22

Manual Material Handling.......................................................................................23

Hand Tools.........................................................................................................24

Environmental Conditions .......................................................................................25

Work Environment ............................................................................................25

Location of Workstation....................................................................................26

Temperature .......................................................................................................26

Personal Protective Equipment................................................................................27

Appendix A – Weight of Wood Equation ...............................................................28

Appendix B – Regional Map ...................................................................................30


Task List

For each of the tasks listed below, please indicate whether it occurs at your mill.

Edge lumber

An Edger Operator views and then edgeslumber to produce the optimum yield. Edginginvolves selecting the right width usingcontrols on a console and adjusting the positionof the lumber with the joysticks and leversassociated.

Does this task occur at your mill?

! Yes ! No

Unjam lumber

An Edger Operator unjams the edger whenlumber piles up.


! Yes ! No

Physical Demands Analysis



Clean photo eyes and booth

An Edger Operator cleans the machine (i.e.,photo eyes) or booth at the end of the shift.


! Yes ! No


Company Profile

Company Name: Division:

Number of Employees: Turnover in last 12 months:+/- or %

Is a Return-to-Work (RTW) strategy in place? !Yes !No

If yes, check all that apply: !Modified Job !Modified Worksite !Graduated RTW


Work Organisation

Task Description

The table below contains a list of tasks performed on an everyday basis by a Edger Operator(Booth).

Indicate each of the tasks performed at your mill by placing a check mark (✔✔✔✔) in the farleft column.

Note the corresponding values for the percentage of the shift spent performing the task(Percentage of Shift) as found during the ergonomic investigation. The Comments section maybe used to elaborate on the task description (i.e., variations between mills, frequencies, cycletimes, etc.)

Percent of Shift

Task

Rar

ely

0to

5%

Occ

asio

nall

y6

to33

%

Fre

quen

tly

34to

66%

Con

stan

tly

67to

100%

Comments

Edging lumber ✔ • Cycle time = Approximately 5 to 10seconds

Un-jamming lumber ✔ • Cycle time = Approximately 5 minutes• This includes manual unjamming and

unjamming using controls

Cleaning photo eyes and booth ✔ • Cycle time = Approximately 5 minutes

Other:


Organisational Factors

The table below contains a list of organisational factors for an Edger Operator (Booth). For eachof the items, place a check beside the statements (i.e., 30 minute lunch) that reflect the situationat your mill. Additional check boxes have been provided for you to enter your mill-specificinformation if it is not stated.

For the last item, if the job has scheduled job rotation (i.e., rotate from one job to another duringa shift) check ‘Yes’ and then write in the jobs the worker rotates to and how often these rotationsoccur. If you do not have job rotation for this job, check ‘No’.

Length of shift ! 8 hours

!

Formal breaks ! Two 10 minute breaks

! 30 minute lunch

!

Informal breaks ! N/A

!

Work pace ! 9 to 12 pieces per minute

!

Work pace control ! Self-paced

!Job rotation

! Yes(Check one)

! No

If Yes: Rotation with what job(s):_____________________________

_________________________________________________________

How often: (e.g., every 2 hours)_______________________________


Workstation Characteristics

Dimensions & Layout

Indicate the specified dimensions of the workstation to the nearest centimetre. Please refer toFigure 1 for the measurement locations.

Workstation Dimensions

Control panel height (A)cm

Seat height (B)cm

Figure 1: Edger Workstation


Flooring, Displays and Seating

The table below lists components of the workstation. For Flooring and Displays there areseveral options provided. Please indicate all of the options, which apply to the workstation atyour mill.

For the Seating section, first indicate whether seating is present at the workstation and thencontinue by elaborating on the features of the seating.

Workstation CharacteristicsFlooring Check all that apply

! Cement ! Wood ! Rubber ! MetalMatting

! Other (e.g., tile, carpet) ______________________

Displays Check all that apply

! Lights ! Mirrors ! Video ! Computeron Console Monitors Monitors

! None ! Scrolling ! Signal ! OtherDisplay Lights ______________

Seating:

! Yes(Check one)

! No

! Sit/stand ! Office Height of seat: ___________cm

! Industrial ! In-house Depth of seat: ___________cmDesign

Width of seat: ___________cm

Check all that apply

! Armrests ! Backrest ! Swivel Seat ! Slide track

! Castors #_______

Covering type: _______________________________

Seat adjustable? ! Yes ! No

If yes, adjustable: ! Height ! Armrests

! Backrest ! Forward tilt


Equipment & Machinery Controls

The table below contains a list of the types of controls used by an Edger Operator (Booth).

Indicate the controls which are present at your mill by placing a check mark (✔✔✔✔) in the farleft column. Indicate their corresponding functions by checking off the applicable box(es).

The Comments section may contain information, which describes variations between mills.

Type of Control Function Frequency Comments

Joystick ! Operate edger

! Operate conveyors

• Continuous use ofjoystick

Push button ! Operate edger to makeappropriate cuts

• Controls used inmany differentpatterns

Foot pedal ! Operate edger

! Operate conveyors

6 times per minute • Some operatorshave hand controlswith the samefunctions

Other:


Physical Demands

Whole Body Physical Demands

Identify each of the physical demands required by an Edger Operator (Booth), by placing acheck mark (✔✔✔✔) in the far left column.

The Comments section may contain information relating to duration, frequencies and othervariations in the physical demands.

Percent of Shift

Physical Demands Tasks

Rar

ely

0to

5%

Occ

asio

nall

y6

to33

%

Fre

quen

tly

34to

66%

Con

stan

tly

67to

100%

Comments

Walking • Not Applicable

Sitting • Edging lumber ✔ • Un-jamming can be donefrom a seated position if itis done using controls

Standing • Not Applicable

Climbing • Cleaning photo eyes• Un-jamming

✔ • When manually un-jamming

Balancing • Not Applicable

Kneeling/Crouching

• Not Applicable

Other:


Body Postures

The table below outlines the body postures held or repeated throughout the shift by an EdgerOperator (Booth).

For each of the postures identified, indicate whether it occurs by placing a check mark (✔✔✔✔)in the far left column.

The Comments section may contain information relating to duration, frequencies and othervariations in posture.

Percent of Shift

Body Posture Task(s)

Rar

ely

0to

5%

Occ

asio

nall

y6

to33

%

Fre

quen

tly

34to

66%

Con

stan

tly

67to

100%

Comments

NeckFlexion • Edging lumber ✔ • Frequency = 10 times per

minute• Viewing working area• Amount depends on

workstation layoutExtension • Not Applicable

Twisting • Edging lumber ✔ • Frequency = 10 times perminute

• Viewing incoming lumber

ShoulderFlexion • Not Applicable

Abduction • Edging lumber ✔ • Depends on location ofjoystick

Extension • Not Applicable


Percent of Shift


Rar

ely

0to

5%

Occ

asio

nall

y6

to33

%

Fre

quen

tly

34to

66%

Con

stan

tly

67to

100% Comments

ForearmRotation Not Applicable

WristFlexion • Edging lumber ✔ • Using controls

Extension Not Applicable

Ulnar Deviation • Edging lumber ✔ • Use of joystick duringedging or un-jamming

Radial Deviation Not Applicable

BackFlexion • Edging lumber

• Cleaning photoeyes and booth,

• Un-jamming

✔ • Back flexion during edgingdepends on workstationlayout

• Back flexion during manualun-jamming and cleaningphoto eyes.

Lateral Flexion Not Applicable


Percent of Shift


Rar

ely

0to

5%

Occ

asio

nall

y6

to33

%

Fre

quen

tly

34to

66%

Con

stan

tly

67to

100% Comments

BackTwisting Not Applicable

Extension Not Applicable

Other:


Hand Grips

The table below contains a list of the common types of hand grips (i.e., how objects are held)used by an Edger Operator (Booth).

For each of the hand grips used at your mill, indicate which types of grips are used, byplacing a check mark (✔✔✔✔) in the far left column.

The Comments section may contain information relating to duration, frequencies, preferred handused, etc.

Percent of Shift

Type Task(s)

Rar

ely

0to

5%

Occ

asio

nall

y6

to33

%

Fre

quen

tly

34to

66%

Con

stan

tly

67to

100% Comments

Power • Edging lumber ✔ • Duration held at once =1 to 2hours

• Holding joysticks

Pinch • Un-jamming lumber ✔ • Manually un-jamming

Hook Not Applicable

Precision Not Applicable

Other:


Manual Material Handling

The table below contains a list of manual material handling tasks (i.e. pushing, pulling, lifting,lowering, and carrying) performed by a Edger Operator (Booth).

Indicate which tasks are performed by placing a check mark (✔✔✔✔) in the far left column.Fill in the weight of the objects handled (may have to estimate).

The Comments section may contain information relating to duration, frequencies and detailsregarding characteristics of the object handled.

Percent of Shift

Task Description Weight (kg)

Rar

ely

0to

5%

Occ

asio

nall

y6

to33

%

Fre

quen

tly

34to

66%

Con

stan

tly

67to

100%

Comments

Pushing and pulling ofboards while un-jamminglumber

CompleteAppendix A todetermine weights

✔ • Frequency = 4 to 16times per shift

• Manually un-jamming

Lifting and lowering ofboards while un-jamminglumber

CompleteAppendix A todetermine weights

✔ • Frequency = 4 to 16times per shift

• Manually un-jamming

Other:


Hand Tools

Indicate the hand tools used by an Edger Operator (Booth) at your mill, by placing a checkmark (✔✔✔✔) in the far left column. Determine the weight of the hand tool and place inappropriate column.

The Comments section may contain information relating to duration and frequencies of use.

Percent of Shift

Type of Tool Task(s) Weight ofTool (kg)

Rar

ely

0to

5%

Occ

asio

nall

y6

to33

%

Fre

quen

tly

34to

66%

Con

stan

tly

67to

100%

Comments

Picaroon Un-jamming 1.3 ✔ • Frequency = 4 timesper shift

• Duration = 1 minute

Chain saw Un-jamming 6.8 ✔ • Not used daily

Other:


Environmental Conditions

Work Environment

The table below contains a list of environmental conditions that may be of concern at the EdgerOperator (Booth) job.

Vibration occurs when the body is in contact with a vibrating object or surface such as a tool, aseat or the floor. If vibration occurs at this job, check ‘Yes’ and then mark whether the vibrationis whole body and/or hand transmitted and the path through the body by which the vibration istransmitted. If vibration does not occur at this job, check ‘No’.

If possible, please indicate the appropriate value for the noise and lighting levels at your mill forthe Edger Operator (Booth). For the lighting level, please include the location of themeasurements within the workstation.

FactorVibration

! Yes(Check one)

! Whole body

! Seat

! Floor

! No! Hand transmitted

! Tool

! Other: ___________________

Noise level 81.2 dB (in booth)

Lighting level 71 to 111.5 lux Inside Booth

555 lux Outside booth

Other


Location of Workstation

The table below contains a list of the type of work environments a workstation may be located in.

For the workstation, indicate which of the following types of work environments apply witha check mark (✔✔✔✔) in the left column.

For example, the workstation may be inside the main building but exposed to the outside via adoorway that is always open and has both a fan and a heater. In this situation all three, ‘Insideexposed’, ‘Fan’ and ‘Heater’, would be checked for this workstation.

Work Environment

Outside uncoveredOutside coveredInside enclosedInside exposedHeater presentFan present

Temperature

The table below contains a list of the geographical regions of British Columbia.

For your mill, indicate the appropriate region with a check mark (✔✔✔✔) in the left column.

Refer to the regional map in Appendix B of the PDA.

Region Avg. MaxJuly/Aug

Avg. MinDec/Jan

Extreme Max. Extreme Min.

Vancouver Island 22.5 oC -0.6 oC 36.1 oC -18.8 oCSouthwestern BC 22.9 oC 0.4 oC 35.6 oC -18.3 oCCariboo Chilcotin Coast 22.2 oC -11.6 oC 36.4 oC -42.5 oCHigh Country 26.3 oC -9.9 oC 39.6 oC -39.7 oCOkanagan Similkameen 26.5 oC -8.4 oC 36.0 oC -36.3 oCKootenay Country 26.2 oC -6.7 oC 38.5 oC -32.0 oCBritish Columbia Rockies 24.7 oC -12.3 oC 37.5 oC -42.2 oCNorth by Northwest 19.5 oC -11.7 oC 32.9 oC -38.1 oCPeace River Alaska Highway 20.0 oC -20.2 oC 34.6 oC -47.7 oC


Personal Protective Equipment

The table below contains a list of the personal protective equipment (PPE).

For the Edger Operator (Booth) job at your mill, indicate which of the PPE items arerequired with a check mark (✔✔✔✔).

GlovesType:

Hard Hat Leather Apron

Glove Liners Steel-toed Boots Dust Mask

Eye Protection Hearing Protection Seat Belt

Face Shield/Helmet Life Jacket Harness

Knee Pads Other: Other:


Appendix A – Weight of Wood Equation

1. Type of Wood HandledThe table below contains a list of the types of wood processed in British Columbia. The weightper board foot wet and dry is given for each species. This information will be used in the table inSection 4 to calculate the weight of the wood handled. Please indicate all of the types of woodprocessed at your mill.

Wood Handled Wet lb./Board Foot

Dry lb./Board Foot

Wood Handled Wet lb./Board Foot

Dry lb./Board Foot

Douglas Fir 3.60 2.83 Larch 3.48 N/AHemlock 3.42 2.49 Spruce/Pine/Fir* 2.95 2.18Red Cedar 2.42 2.00 Alpine Fir 2.67 2.00Yellow Cedar 3.01 2.49 Lodge Pole Pine 3.26 2.41Sitka Spruce 2.76 2.23 White Spruce 2.93 2.15

*The Spruce/Pine/Fir values are an average of White Spruce, Lodge Pole Pine, and Alpine Fir.

2. Size of Wood*The table below contains a list of different sizes or dimensions of wood. The percentage next tothe size of the wood is the multiple used to compare the size of the board to a board foot (1” by12” by 12”). This multiple will be used in the table in Section 4 to calculate the weight of woodhandled. Please indicate all of the applicable sizes of wood handled at the workstation. Add anyother sizes to the bottom of the table if your particular size of wood is not listed.

1” Sizes Multiple 2” Sizes Multiple 4” Sizes Multiple 6” Sizes Multiple 8” Sizes Multiple

1 by 4 0.33 2 by 4 0.67 4 by 4 1.33 6 by 6 3.00 8 by 8 5.331 by 6 0.50 2 by 6 1.00 4 by 6 2.00 6 by 8 4.00 8 by 10 6.671 by 8 0.67 2 by 8 1.33 4 by 8 2.67 6 by 10 5.00 8 by 12 8.001 by 10 0.83 2 by 10 1.67 4 by 10 3.33 6 by 12 6.001 by 12 1.00 2 by 12 2.00 4 by 12 4.00

* Conservative estimates of actual wood dimensions

If the size of the board is different from those in this table, use this equation to find out the multiple value.

[(Dimensions of wood) x 12] / 144 = Multiple

For example: For a 5 by 5 piece of wood [(5x5) x 12]/144 = 2.08

3. Length of WoodThe table below contains a list of the common lengths of wood. Please indicate which of theselengths are being handled at this particular workstation. Add additional lengths to the table ifnecessary. This information will be used in the table in Section 4.

Length of Wood6 foot 12 foot 18 foot 22 foot8 foot 14 foot 20 foot 24 foot10 foot 16 foot Other: Other:


4. Weight of Wood Equation*The table below is used to calculate the weight of the boards being handled. The weight iscalculated by multiplying the species weight/board foot (Section 1 value) by the size of woodmultiple (Section 2 value) and by the length of wood (Section 3 value).

Example: For a run of wet Spruce/Pine/Fir, 2” x 4”, 16 feet long

2.95 (wet lb./ board foot) x 0.67 (size of wood multiple for 2” x 4”) x 16 (length of board in feet) = 32 lbs.

For the heaviest species handled, enter the lb./board foot value, the multiple for the largest size ofthis wood, and the largest length of this wood. Multiply these values together to determine theweight of the board in pounds.

For the most common species handled, enter the lb./board foot value, the multiple for the mostcommon size of wood, and the most common length of this wood. Multiply these valuestogether to determine the weight of the board in pounds.

For the lightest species handled, enter the lb./board foot value, the multiple for the smallest sizeof wood, and the shortest length of this wood. Multiply these values together to determine theweight of the board in pounds.

If required, divide the pound value by 2.2 to obtain the weight of the board in kilograms.

Type of Wood Handled(lb./ board foot)From Section 1

x Multiple(size of wood)From Section 2

x Length ofWoodFrom Section 3

= Weight of theBoard inpounds

Divide by 2.2to calculatevalue inkilograms

HeaviestSpeciesHandled

x x =

MostCommonSpeciesHandled

x x =

LightestSpeciesHandled

x x =

* Weight may vary from the above calculation depending on the cell moisture content of the wood, actual wooddimensions, and wood density.


Appendix B – Regional Map

A - Vancouver Island F - Kootenay CountryB - High Country G - British Columbia RockiesC - Southwestern BC H - North by NorthwestD - Cariboo Chilcotin Coast I - Peace River Alaska HighwayE - Okanagan Similkameen

H I

D

A C

B

F

G

E

See Disclaimer in PDA & Work Manual © 2000 IMIRP Society Booth Checklist 31

Risk Factor Identification Checklist

Booth Operator

Purpose

The Risk Factor Identification Checklist for a Booth Operator is used to identify potentialergonomic risk factors. Keep in mind that the purpose of this checklist is only to identifypotential ergonomic risk factors, not to assess them.

The checklist can be used as part of your ergonomic intervention process, when workers expressconcerns about their work environment, during regular workplace inspections and observations,or when conducting an accident or injury investigation. Ideally, management and workerrepresentatives who have completed the IMIRP Occupational Health & Safety Committee andSupervisor Ergonomic Training Session should complete this checklist. Try to view differentworkers in the same occupation when completing the checklist. Some specific examples aregiven to help answer the questions.

Instructions

GeneralExcept for the first two questions, all remaining questions will require an answer with an impliedfrequency. For appropriate questions indicate with a check mark (✔) whether the answer to thequestion is ‘No’ or ‘Yes’. This way you will have a record indicating that all risk factors havebeen considered in the identification process.

If you indicate ‘No’, please continue to the next question. If the question refers to a situationwhich does not exist (e.g., there is no seating available), please indicate ‘No’ in the appropriatebox and continue to the next question.

If your answer is ‘Yes’, please check the appropriate box and then circle the frequency (‘S’ for‘Sometimes’ or ‘O’ for ‘Often’). If you answer ‘Yes – Sometimes’, then this risk factor may bea potential area of concern. If you answer ‘Yes – Often’ then there is an increased likelihoodthat this risk factor is an issue. Each mill will be responsible for defining what ‘Sometimes’ and‘Often’ will mean to them. It is important that all people who complete the checklist areconsistent in how they determine if a risk factor occurs ‘Sometimes’ or ‘Often’. Use the‘Comments’ section to indicate specific tasks, or to make other notes about the direct riskfactors.

Since ergonomic risk factors frequently occur in combinations, you may find similar questions indifferent sections. Answering all questions will ensure that the situations that involvecombinations of ergonomic risk factors are identified. It is very important to recognise all riskfactors that occur in the work area.


Please note that for some of the questions it will be beneficial to ask the worker for their input.Please take the opportunity to include the operator in the risk factor identification process asmuch as possible. Videotaping the job of interest and reviewing the checklist in a quiet area withthe worker may allow for more discussion.

Summary TablesAt the end of each body part section, summarise your findings in the table provided. If any ofthe direct risk factor sections contain a ‘Yes’, indicate ‘Yes’ in the appropriate section of thesummary table. Answer the questions referring to injury statistics and discomfort surveyfindings. If there are only ‘No’ answers in a direct risk factor section, indicate ‘No’ in thesummary table for that section. Use the summary information to determine how you will use theWork Manual.


Risk Factor Identification Checklist – Booth Operator

Management Representative _________________ Risk Identification completed:

Worker Representative _________________ ! Before implementation of solutions

Date _________________! After implementation of solutions

Job History No Yes Comments1 Are there records of musculoskeletal

injuries or accidents to indicate a risk ofmusculoskeletal injury? (refer toWorksheet 1 in Implementation Guide)

2 Are there worker comments to indicate arisk of musculoskeletal injuries? (refer toWorksheet 2 in Implementation Guide)

Definitions

Force: Force is the amount of physical effort required by the person to do a task and/or maintain controlof tools and equipment. The effort depends on the type of grip, object weight and dimensions, bodyposture, type of activity, surface of the object, temperature, vibration, duration of the task, and number ofrepetitions.

Repetition: Repetition is defined as similar or the same motions performed repeatedly. The severity ofrisk depends on the frequency of repetition, speed of the movement or action, the number of musclegroups involved, and the required force. Repetition is influenced by machine or line pacing, incentiveprograms, piecework, and deadlines.

Static Postures: Static loading (sustained exertions) is physical effort (body postures) that is held,requiring muscle contraction for more than a short time.

Contact Stress: Contact stress is the contact of the body with a hard surface or edge. Contact stress canalso result when using a part of the body as a hammer or striking instrument.

Awkward Postures: Awkward postures occur when there is a deviation from a power working posture.Some examples of awkward postures typically include reaching behind, twisting, working overhead, andforward or backward bending.

Vibration: Vibration is oscillation of a tool or surface. Vibration can be transmitted through the arm orthrough the whole body.


NECKRepetition N Y Comments:Are identical or similar motions performedover and over again?(e.g., looking side-to-side frequently)

S

OAsk the worker: Do you spend a largepercentage of the day performing one actionor task?(e.g., observing machinery processes)

S

O

Static PostureAsk the worker: Do tasks require your neckor shoulders to be maintained in a fixed orstatic posture? (e.g., looking to the side for along period, looking up at a monitor)

S

OAwkward PostureFlexion

S

O

ExtensionS

OLateral Bending

S

ORotation

S

O

Please indicate whether the following direct risk factors wereidentified at the NECK.

Repetition !Yes !NoStatic Posture !Yes !No

Dir

ect

Ris

kF

acto

rs

Awkward Posture !Yes !No

In the Injury Statistics investigation, werethere injury reports for the Neck or Head/Eyeor Upper Back? (see Worksheet 1 in theImplementation Guide)

!Yes !No

In the Discomfort Survey investigation,were there reports of discomfort for the Neckor Head/Eye or Upper Back? (see Worksheet2 in the Implementation Guide)

!Yes !NoBody parts within the circled areawill be classified as NECK issues.


SHOULDERForce N Y Comments:Is forceful physical handling performed? Such as:Lifting S

OLowering

S

OPushing

S

OPulling

S

OCarrying

S

ORepetitionAre identical or similar motions performed overand over again? (e.g., operation of controls) S

O

Ask the worker: Do you spend a large percentageof the day performing one action or task?(e.g., operation of joystick)

S

O

Static PostureAsk the worker: Do tasks require your shoulders tobe maintained in a fixed or static posture?(e.g., holding a joystick out to the side)

S

O

Ask the worker: Do you hold parts, tools, orobjects for long periods? S

O


Awkward Posture N Y Comments:Flexion

S

O

ExtensionS

O

AbductionS

O

AdductionS

O

Please indicate whether the following direct risk factors wereidentified at the SHOULDER.

Force !Yes !NoRepetition !Yes !No

Static Posture !Yes !No

Dir

ect

Ris

kF

acto

rs

Awkward Posture !Yes !NoIn the Injury Statistics investigation, werethere injury reports for the Shoulder or Neckor Upper Back? (see Worksheet 1 in theImplementation Guide)

!Yes !No

In the Discomfort Survey investigation,were there reports of discomfort for theShoulder or Neck or Upper Back? (seeWorksheet 2 in the Implementation Guide)

!Yes !NoBody parts within the circled area will

be classified as SHOULDER issues.


ELBOWForce N Y Comments:Is forceful physical handlingperformed? Such as:Lifting

S

OLowering S

OPushing S

OPulling S

OCarrying S

OTurning materials S

OAre objects handled in apower grip? (e.g., joystick)

S

O

Are objects handled in apinch grip?

S

O

Are objects handled in ahook grip?

S

O

Ask the worker: Do you wear gloveswhile performing your job?If the answer is No, check the No boxand go to next section.

* S

O

*If the answer to the above question isYes, ask the worker:Are the gloves too large/small?

S

ODoes the thickness of the gloves causeproblems with gripping?

S

ORepetitionAre identical or similar motionsperformed over and over again?(e.g., forward-backward movement ofjoystick)

S

O

Ask the worker: Do you spend a largepercentage of the day performing oneaction or task? (e.g., operating infeed)

S

O


Static Posture N Y Comments:Ask the worker: Do tasks requireyour hand and arm to be maintainedin a fixed or static posture?(e.g., holding a joystick in place)

S

OAsk the worker: Do you applyconstant pressure on controls/objectswith your hand?(e.g., activation of buttons onjoystick)

S

O

Ask the worker: Do you hold parts,tools, or objects for long periods?

S

OContact StressAsk the worker: Do any objects,tools or parts of the workstation putpressure on any parts of your hand orarm, such as the backs or sides offingers, palm or base of the hand,forearm, elbow?(e.g., resting elbow on hard surface)

S

O

VibrationAsk the worker: Is vibrationtransmitted to your hand through atool or piece of equipment?(e.g., joystick)

S

O

Please indicate whether the following direct risk factors wereidentified at the ELBOW.


Static Posture !Yes !NoContact Stress !Yes !NoD

irec

tR

isk

Fac

tors

Vibration !Yes !NoIn the Injury Statistics investigation, were thereinjury reports for the Elbow or Forearm?

(see Worksheet 1 in the Implementation Guide)

!Yes !No

In the Discomfort Survey investigation, were therereports of discomfort for the Elbow or Forearm?(see Worksheet 2 in the Implementation Guide)

!Yes !No

Body parts within the circled areawill be classified as ELBOW issues.


WRIST/HANDForce N Y Comments:Is forceful physical handlingperformed? Such as:Lifting

S

OLowering S

OPushing S

OPulling S

OCarrying S

OTurning materials S

OAre objects handled in apower grip?(e.g., using a pike pole)

S

OAre objects handled in apinch grip?(e.g., grip used to pick uplumber)

S

O

Are objects handled in ahook grip?(e.g., grip used to hold ajoystick)

S

O

Ask the worker: Do you wear gloveswhile performing your job?If the answer is No, check the No boxand go to next section.

* S

O

*If the answer to the above question isYes, ask the worker:Are the gloves too large/small?

S

O

Does the thickness of the gloves causeproblems with gripping?

S

ORepetitionAre identical or similar motionsperformed over and over again? (e.g.,operating joystick with bent wrist)

S

OAsk the worker: Do you spend a largepercentage of the day performing oneaction or task? (e.g., using joystick tooperate infeed)

S

O


Static Posture N Y Comments:Ask the worker: Do tasks require anypart of your arm or hand to bemaintained in a fixed or staticposture?(e.g., holding a joystick)

S

O

Ask the worker: Do you applyconstant pressure on controls/objectswith your hand?(e.g., holding down push button)

S

OAsk the worker: Do you hold parts,tools, or objects for long periods?

S

OContact StressAsk the worker: Do any objects,tools or parts of the workstation putpressure on any parts of your hand orarm, such as the backs or sides offingers, palm or base of the hand,forearm? (e.g., metal edges ofconsoles or workstations)

S

O

Ask the worker: Do you use yourhand like a hammer for striking?(e.g., striking a control)

S

O

Awkward PostureFlexion S

OExtension S

OUlnar Deviation S

ORadialDeviation

S

O

VibrationAsk the worker: Is vibrationtransmitted to your hand through atool or piece of equipment?(e.g., joystick)

S

O


Please indicate whether the following direct risk factors wereidentified at the WRIST/HAND.


Static Posture !Yes !NoContact Stress !Yes !No


Dir

ect

Ris

kF

acto

rs

Vibration !Yes !NoIn the Injury Statistics investigation, werethere injury reports for the Wrist orHand/Finger or Forearm? (see Worksheet 1in the Implementation Guide)

!Yes !No

In the Discomfort Survey investigation,were there reports of discomfort for the Wristor Hand/Finger or Forearm? (see Worksheet2 in the Implementation Guide)

!Yes !No

Body parts within the circled areawill be classified as WRIST issues.


LOW BACK OR HIP/THIGHForce N Y Comments:Is forceful physical handlingperformed? Such as:Lifting

S

OLowering S

OPushing S

OPulling S

OCarrying S

ORepetitionAre identical or similar motionsperformed over and over again?

S

OAsk the worker: Do you spend a largepercentage of the day performing oneaction or task?(e.g., bending to unjam logs)

S

O

Static PostureAsk the worker: Do tasks requireyour trunk and upper body to bemaintained in a fixed or staticposture?(e.g., sitting continuously)

S

O

Are workers required to sit or stand ina stationary position for long periodsof time during the shift?(e.g., sitting continuously)

S

O

Contact StressAsk the worker: Do any objects,tools or parts of the workstation putpressure on any parts of yourhip/thigh?

S

O


Awkward Posture N Y Comments:Flexion S

O

Extension S

O

LateralBending

S

O

Twisting S

O

VibrationAsk the worker: Is your whole bodyexposed to vibration for significantportions of the work shift?(e.g., standing in vibrating booth)

S

O

Please indicate whether the following direct risk factors wereidentified at the LOW BACK or HIP/THIGH.


Static Posture !Yes !NoContact Stress !Yes !No


Dir

ect

Ris

kF

acto

rs

Vibration !Yes !NoIn the Injury Statistics investigation, werethere injury reports for the Low Back orHip/Thigh? (see Worksheet 1 in theImplementation Guide)

!Yes !No

In the Discomfort Survey investigation,were there reports of discomfort for the LowBack or Hip/Thigh? (see Worksheet 2 in theImplementation Guide)

!Yes !No

Body parts within the circled area willbe classified as LOW BACK issues.


KNEERepetition N Y Comments:Are identical or similar motionsperformed over and over again?(e.g., climbing stairs )

S

OStatic PostureAsk the worker: Do tasks require youto maintain your knee(s) in a fixed orstatic posture?(e.g., operating foot pedal)

S

O

Are workers required to sit or stand ina stationary position for long periods oftime during the shift?(e.g., operating control panel)

S

O

Do workers kneel (with one or bothknees)?(e.g., unjamming logs)

S

OContact StressAsk the worker: Do any objects orparts of the workstation put pressure onyour knee(s)? (e.g., metal edges ofconsoles or workstation)

S

O

Awkward PostureExtreme Flexion S

O

Please indicate whether the following direct risk factors wereidentified at the KNEE.

Repetition !Yes !NoStatic Posture !Yes !NoContact Stress !Yes !No

Dir

ect

Ris

kF

acto

rs

Awkward Posture !Yes !NoIn the Injury Statistics investigation, werethere injury reports for the Knee orHip/Thigh? (see Worksheet 1 in theImplementation Guide)

!Yes !No

In the Discomfort Survey investigation,were there reports of discomfort for the Kneeor Hip/Thigh? (see Worksheet 2 in theImplementation Guide)

!Yes !No

Body parts within the circled areawill be classified as KNEE issues.


ANKLE/FOOTRepetition N Y Comments:Are identical or similar motionsperformed over and over again?(e.g., operating foot pedal)

S

OStatic PostureAre workers required to stand in astationary position for long periods oftime during the shift?

S

O

Awkward Posture

Flexion S

OExtension S

OVibrationAsk the worker: Is your whole bodyexposed to vibration for significantportions of the work shift?(e.g., standing in a vibrating booth)

S

O

Please indicate whether the following direct risk factors wereidentified at the ANKLE/FOOT.

Repetition !Yes !NoStatic Posture !Yes !No


Dir

ect

Ris

kF

acto

rs

Vibration !Yes !NoIn the Injury Statistics investigation, werethere injury reports for the Ankle or Foot?(see Worksheet 1 in the ImplementationGuide)

!Yes !No

In the Discomfort Survey investigation,were there reports of discomfort for theAnkle or Foot? (see Worksheet 2 in theImplementation Guide)

!Yes !No Body parts within the circled area willbe classified as ANKLE/FOOT issues.


CHARACTERISTICS OF OBJECTS BEING HANDLEDN Y Comments:

Are there problems handling a loaddue to its size or shape? (e.g., logs)

S

OAre there problems handling a loaddue to its fragile, unbalanced, or non-rigid conditions?

S

OAsk the worker: Do you experiencesituations where mechanical aids orequipment are not readily available toassist with manipulating an object?

S

O

Are handles for tools and equipmentinappropriate in terms of size or shape?(e.g., control handles, pike poles)

S

OAsk the worker: Do any objects thatyou work with (other than tools orequipment) have handles? If theanswer is No, check the No box and goto the next section.

S

O

If the answer to the above question isYes, ask the worker: Are the handlesan inappropriate size or shape for thecharacteristics of the object?

S

O

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONSTemperatureAsk the worker: Are your hands orarms exposed to cold from exhaust air,cold liquids or solids?

S

OAsk the worker: Are you exposeddirectly to temperature extremes thatmay cause you to use more force orcause you to fatigue quicker thannormal? (e.g., hot or cold, either byequipment or natural environment)

S

O

LightingAsk the worker: Do you assumeawkward postures to overcomeproblems associated with glare,inadequate lighting, or poor visibility?(e.g., working under equipment)

S

O


ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS [CONTINUED]Noise N Y Comments:Have there been complaints on thelevel of noise in the work area?

S

OAsk the worker: Are there anydistracting or annoying noises at theworkstation?

S

O

WORK ORGANISATIONN Y Comments:

Is the work externally-paced orcontrolled by a machine or theprocess?

S

ODo peak workloads or suddenincreases in pace occur with the tasks?(e.g., working during mill downtime)

S

OAsk the worker: Are there indicationsof excessive fatigue or pain, orsymptoms of adverse health effectsdue to extended work days orovertime?

S

O

Ask the worker: Are there indicationsof excessive fatigue or adverse healtheffects due to shiftwork?

S

OAsk the worker: Are rest periods ortask variety insufficient to prevent thebuild-up of fatigue or the risk ofadverse health effects?

S

O

Ask the worker: Are tasks in a jobrotation program similar to oneanother, and therefore not providing avariation in movements?

S

O

2000 IMIRP Society Booth Work Manual 48

Injury Education Injury Prevention

WorkManual

IndustrialMusculoskeletalInjuryReductionProgram

Booth Operator


This Work Manual contains information about the body parts found to be at risk ofmusculoskeletal injury (MSI) for the Booth Operator (Injury Education), and howto reduce the risk of MSIs using various control measures (Injury Prevention).Each Work Manual is intended to help Occupational Health and Safety Committeemembers establish effective solutions to reduce MSIs, and as a resource forworkers to understand the MSI risks that they may encounter on the job.

The Body Manual, referenced throughout the Work Manual, is a separatedocument that contains information on how to prevent common MSIs throughexercise. Please note exercises described in the Body Manual should only be usedafter consulting a healthcare practitioner.

The General Risk Factor Solutions Manual, referenced throughout the WorkManual, is a separate document that contains general, preventative information onEnvironmental Conditions and Work Organisation issues.

Work Manual

Booth Operator

DisclaimerThe BC sawmill IMIRP documents were developed by Advanced Ergonomics Inc. (AEI) based on analysesconducted in a number of voluntary, participating sawmills in British Columbia and should be considered

applicable only to the BC sawmill industry. Modification to these documents may reduce their usefulness and/orlead to hazardous situations. Individuals or committees wishing to make Physical Demands Analyses (PDAs) site-specific, or wishing to implement options from the Work Manuals, are advised to first complete the two-day OHSCand Supervisors Ergonomics Training Session. Modifications to a PDA must be within the scope of competence of

those individuals making the changes and must be reported to any rehabilitation professional using the PDA.Neither AEI nor the IMIRP Society accepts any responsibility for the use or misuse of these documents.


WM Table of Contents

INJURY EDUCATION........................................................................................ 51

Body Parts at Risk ............................................................................................ 52

Major Risk Identification ................................................................................. 53

Neck.............................................................................................................55Neck/Shoulder .............................................................................................57Elbow/Wrist.................................................................................................59Wrist ............................................................................................................62Wrist/Hand ..................................................................................................65Low Back ....................................................................................................67Ankle ...........................................................................................................71

Summary of Body Parts at Risk ....................................................................... 73

Risk Factors by Body Part ................................................................................ 76

INJURY PREVENTION...................................................................................... 77

Suggested Solutions.......................................................................................... 78

Risk Control Key .............................................................................................. 79

Workstation Design .......................................................................................... 80

Additional Work Practices ............................................................................... 89

Characteristics of Objects Being Handled........................................................ 92

Environmental Conditions................................................................................ 98

Work Organisation ........................................................................................... 98

Summary of Solutions ...................................................................................... 99


Injury EducationInjuries occur when …

Loads exceed tissue tolerances

This type of injury occurs from a single event,where the loads or forces are so great they exceedtissue tolerances and cause an immediate injury.This type of injury is more common with trips andfalls.

Example – a worker going over on their ankleand spraining it.

This type of injury occurs from repeated loadingweakening tissue to the point of failure. Itprogresses slowly to the point where a subfailureload can cause an injury. This type of injury ismore common with repetitive tasks.

Example – a worker pulling lumber off a chaindeveloping a herniated disc.

This type of injury occurs from constant loadingweakening tissue to the point of failure. Thistype of injury is more common with tasks thatrequire workers to adopt static or awkwardpostures for extended periods.

Example – a Grader developing neck tension.

No Injury

Injury

Loa

d

Tolerance

Excessive ForceTime

Excessive Repetition

Loa

d

Tolerance

Time

No Injury Injury

Tolerance

Excessive Duration

Loa

d

Time

InjuryNo Injury


Body Parts at Risk

The previous page on injury education explains how injuries can occur. The InjuryEducation section of this Work Manual expands on these principles, relating themto the specific body parts at risk of being injured.

After all of the appropriate information is collected during the investigation of theBooth Operator job (i.e., injury statistics, discomfort surveys, results from theIdentification Checklist), the next steps are to:

1. Match the body parts of concern from your investigation to those described inthis section of the Work Manual.

2. Note the direct risk factors associated with each body part of concern.

3. Read the information on the page and try to understand why a body part, incombination with each of the direct risk factors, is of concern.

4. Discover which indirect risk factors are associated with a particular body partproblem and the headings under which they are found in the Injury Preventionsection of the Work Manual.

5. Note the consequences of the direct risk factor relative to a body part.

6. Note where the potential solutions can be found within the Injury Preventionsection of the Work Manual. In addition, for many of the body parts, areference may be provided to refer to specific sections of the Body Manual.

At the end of the Body Parts at Risk Section, there is a summary page of all thebody parts of concern for the Booth Operator. In addition, a reference table, with asummary of the direct and indirect risk factors by body part, is provided.

In the last section on Injury Prevention, the Work Manual discusses specificsolution options for each of the body parts at risk.


Major Risk Identification

IMIRP ergonomists have assessed the Booth Operator position and found that theneck, neck/shoulder, wrist, and low back are the body parts of major concern whileperforming their duties. Focussing on solutions that target the areas of majorconcern will likely reduce the greatest risks associated with this job.

Neck: Major risks include awkward and static postures, and repetition with theneck while observing monitors and the outside environment.

The following solutions are targeted at reducing the risk of injury to the neck:

1. Research equipment or workstation layout with operators (page 81)2. TV and computer monitors (page 87)3. Mirrors (page 87)4. Position of booth (page 88)5. Stretches (page 89)6. View with eyes (page 89)7. Reduce glare (page 98)

Neck/Shoulder: Major risks include awkward and static postures, and repetitionwith the neck/shoulder while holding the arms away from the body in order tooperate controls.

The following solutions are targeted at reducing the risk of injury to theneck/shoulder:

1. Neutral posture (page 80)2. Adjust chair (page 82)3. Moving console (page 81)4. Range of motion in controls (page 81)5. Research equipment or workstation layout with operators (page 81)6. Control distance while seated (page 81)7. Arm supports (page 82)8. Operate controls at appropriate heights (page 82)9. Stretches (page 89)


Wrist: Major risks include force, awkward postures, and repetition with the wristwhile gripping controls with the wrists bent in order to operate equipment.

The following solutions are targeted at reducing the risk of injury to the wrist:

1. Padding on console (page 80)2. Moving console (page 81)3. Range of motion in controls (page 81)4. Research equipment or workstation layout with operators (page 28)5. Arm supports (page 82)6. Operate controls at appropriate heights (page 82)7. Stretches (page 89)8. Neutral wrist posture (page 92)9. Neutral wrist posture – joystick use (page 92)

Low Back: Major risks include force, awkward and static postures, repetition, andvibration with the low back while bending forward and to the side in order tounjam logs or lumber and while sitting continually on a vibrating surface.

The following solutions are targeted at reducing the risk of injury to the low back:

1. Moving console (page 81)2. Research equipment or workstation layout with operators (page 28)3. Control distance while seated (page 81)4. Lumbar support (page 83)5. Adjustable seating (page 83)6. Vary body posture (page 84)7. Seat maintenance (page 84)8. Stretches (page 89)9. Daily inspection of seat (page 84)10. Stretches (page 89)11. Power positions (page 92)12. Manual material handling (page 93)13. Pike pole use (page 96)14. Lightweight, sharp tools (page 96)15. Vibration (page 98)16. Task variability (page 98)

For additional stretching and strengthening exercises that would benefit a BoothOperator, refer to the Neck, Shoulder, Wrist, and Low Back sections of the BodyManual.


NECK Direct Risk Factors:Repetition

Awkward PosturesStatic Postures

A Booth Operator must look to thesides, or to one side only, in order toobserve monitors and the millenvironment. An operator may alsolook up to view monitors andmirrors.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

• A number of smaller muscles around the neck produce the forces necessary tosupport and move the head. These muscles remain relatively relaxed when thehead is balanced over the spine (neutral posture). The neutral posture occurswhen the head is upright, and the ears and shoulders are aligned.

DIRECT RISK FACTORS

Repetition• When the head is repeatedly turned to the side, the muscles of the neck are

subjected to repeated stress with little time for recovery. If the repetitive stressis excessive, and recovery is not adequate, the tissues can fatigue to the point ofinjury.

Awkward Postures• Neck muscles are required to turn the head to the side. The further the head is

turned to the side, the greater the load on the muscles and tendons.• Neck muscles must support the weight of the head while in a backward bent

position. The more the neck is bent, the greater the load on the muscles andtendons.


Static Postures• When the neck is held still in a twisted position, the muscles of the neck must

remain tense to support the weight of the head. With no time allowed forrecovery, the constant state of tension in the neck muscles may cause fatigue. Ifthe constant stress is sufficient, and recovery is not adequate, the tissues mayfatigue to the point of injury.

INDIRECT RISK FACTORS

Workstation DesignWorking Heights• The heights of monitors and operator seating affects the degree of neck bending

required.

Additional Workstation Design Options• The position of booth windows and seating, with respect to the process that

needs to be observed, can affect the neck postures required by the BoothOperator.

CONSEQUENCES

• When the head is held in a twisted posture, muscles and soft tissues of the neckmay fatigue. Fatigue leads to an accumulation of waste products and/or adecrease in the ability to tolerate additional stress.

• Signs and symptoms include pain, tenderness, muscle spasm in the neck area,and headaches.

SUGGESTED SOLUTIONS

• For specific solutions that may prevent injuries to the neck, please see thecolumn labelled “Neck” in the Summary of Solutions on pages 99 to 102.

• For exercises that can help to prevent neck injuries, see the Neck section of theBody Manual.


NECK/SHOULDER Direct Risk Factors:Repetition

Awkward PosturesStatic Postures

A Booth Operator frequently holdsone or both arms away from the bodyin order to operate controls.


• The neck and shoulder regions work together to produce certain movements, orto hold certain postures. The larger muscles of the neck and upper back (e.g.,trapezius) elevate the shoulders, and the larger muscles of the shoulders (e.g.,deltoids) raise the arms.

DIRECT RISK FACTORS

Repetition• When the arms are repeatedly lifted, the muscles of the neck and shoulder are

subjected to repeated stress with little or no time for recovery. If the repetitivestress is excessive, and recovery is not adequate, the tissues may fatigue to thepoint of injury.

Awkward Postures• Neck and shoulder muscles must support the weight of the arms when they are

away from the body. The farther away the arms are from the body, the greaterthe load on the muscles and tendons.

Static Postures• When the arms are repeatedly held away from the body, the muscles of the neck

and shoulder must remain tense to support the weight. If the duration ofconstant tension is excessive, and recovery is not adequate, the tissues mayfatigue to the point of injury.



Workstation DesignWorking Reaches• The distance to equipment controls can lead to awkward arm postures,

especially for operators with shorter arms or in situations with non-adjustableseating.

CONSEQUENCES

• When the arms are held away from the body, muscles and soft tissues of theneck and shoulder may fatigue. Fatigue leads to an accumulation of wasteproducts and/or a decrease in the ability to tolerate additional stress.

• Signs and symptoms include pain, tenderness, muscle spasm in the neck andshoulder area, and headaches.

SUGGESTED SOLUTIONS

• For specific solutions that may prevent injuries to the neck/shoulder, please seethe column labelled “Neck/Shoulder” in the Summary of Solutions on pages 99to 102.

• For exercises that can help to prevent neck and shoulder injuries, see the Neckand Shoulder sections of the Body Manual.


ELBOW/WRIST Direct Risk Factors:Force

RepetitionAwkward Postures

A Booth Operator must grip joysticksand other controls in order to operateequipment.


• Muscles used for gripping are found in the forearm. The tendons of thesemuscles cross over the elbow and the wrist joints before connecting to bones.The elbow area may be affected by tension generated in the forearm muscles.

DIRECT RISK FACTORS

Force• Gripping an object requires activation of the forearm muscles, which generates

tension at the tendon/bone connection of the elbow. The harder that an objectmust be gripped, the greater the load on the tendon/bone connection.

Repetition• Repeated stress to the elbow without adequate rest could slowly fatigue tissues

to the point of injury.

Awkward Postures• The width of an object affects how much muscle tension needs to be generated.

There is an optimal grip width where the forearm muscles work efficiently.Outside this width, muscles have to work harder to generate equivalent tension.Consequently, objects that are too large (e.g., large cuts of wood) or too small(e.g., narrow tool handles) could increase the tension generated by muscles, andlead to tissue fatigue at the tendon/bone connection.


• The position of the wrist also affects how much muscle tension needs to begenerated. There is an optimal wrist position where the forearm muscles workefficiently. This occurs when the wrist is in its natural relaxed (neutral)position. Bending the wrist forward or backward deviates from this position,and the forearm muscles have to work harder to maintain the grip.Consequently, gripping objects with the wrist bent increases the tensiongenerated by muscles, and could lead to tissue fatigue at the tendon/boneconnection.


Workstation DesignWorking Reaches• Extreme or obstructed working reaches can lead to awkward wrist postures, and

an increase in forearm injury risk.

Additional Workstation Design Options• Booth Operators occasionally use forceful gripping of controls to provide arm

support when armrests are not present. This forceful gripping leads to increasedforearm fatigue, and risk of injury.

Characteristics of Objects Being HandledSize and Shape• The style of control used can lead to awkward wrist postures. In combination

with repetitive or sustained use, these postures can lead to elbow and forearminjuries.

Environmental ConditionsVibration• Vibration transmitted to the Booth Operator through controls can increase the

risk of elbow and wrist injury.

CONSEQUENCES

• Repeated forceful gripping may lead to fatigue at the tendon/bone connectionnear the elbow.

• Signs and symptoms include pain in the elbow area and decreased grip strength.


SUGGESTED SOLUTIONS

• For specific solutions that may prevent injuries to the elbow/wrist, please seethe column labelled “Elbow/Wrist” in the Summary of Solutions on pages 99 to102.

• For exercises that can help to prevent elbow injuries, see the Elbow section ofthe Body Manual.


WRIST Direct Risk Factors:Force


A Booth Operator must grip controlswith the wrists bent in order tooperate equipment.


• Most of the muscles involved in gripping and manoeuvring the hands are foundin the forearms. These muscles attach at the elbow and their tendons(surrounded by a protective sheath) run down the forearm into the hand. At thewrist, the tendons and a nerve run under a thick band, which forms the roof ofthe carpal tunnel.

The Carpal Tunnel


DIRECT RISK FACTORS

Force• Gripping an object requires activation of the forearm muscles, which generates

tension in the tendons and tendon sheaths running through the wrist. Theharder an object is gripped, the greater the tension in the tendons. As tensionincreases, the pressure within the carpal tunnel may also increase.

Repetition• Repeated gripping and/or repeated bending of the wrist causes stress to the

tendon sheaths. If the repetitive stress is excessive, and recovery is notadequate, the tendon sheaths may fatigue to the point of injury.

Awkward Postures• As the wrist is bent, the tendon sheaths will rub up against the walls of the

carpal tunnel. The further the wrist is bent, the more friction experienced in thetendon sheaths.


Workstation DesignWorking Reaches• Extreme or obstructed working reaches can lead to awkward wrist postures, and

an increased injury risk.

Characteristics of Objects Being HandledSize and Shape• Some control types, such as toggle switches and joysticks, can require repetitive

awkward wrist postures.

Environmental ConditionsCold Exposure• Exposure to cold temperatures, in combination with the previous risk factors,

can increase the risk of wrist injury.


CONSEQUENCES

• Repeatedly gripping objects with the wrist bent may lead to irritation anddamage in the tendon sheaths.

• Signs and symptoms include pain, tenderness, and inflammation in the wristarea.

SUGGESTED SOLUTIONS

• For specific solutions that may prevent injuries to the wrist, please see thecolumn labelled “Wrist” in the Summary of Solutions on pages 99 to 102.


WRIST/HAND Direct Risk Factors:Contact Stress

Vibration

A Booth Operator rests thewrist/hand on controls or the consolewhen using obstructed controls, orbetween the use of controls.


• The carpal tunnel is located at the base of the palm; it contains the tendons ofthe muscles that bend the hand and wrist inwards and an important nerve(median nerve).

DIRECT RISK FACTORS

Contact Stress• Contact between hard or sharp surfaces and the base of the palm places stress

on the tendons and nerves in the carpal tunnel.• Continual contact with hard or sharp surfaces may damage the nerve and/or

gradually weaken the tendons, and cause injury.

The Carpal Tunnel


Vibration• Exposure to vibration, through the use of power tools or through contact with

other vibrating objects, places a unique form of mechanical stress on the tissuesof the hand and wrist. Factors like vibration level and vibration frequencyinfluence the amount of mechanical stress.

• Continual exposure to hand/arm vibration may gradually damage neurovasculartissue (nerves and blood vessels) in the hand, and may contribute to problems inthe wrist.


Workstation DesignAdditional Workstation Design Options• Obstructed access to frequently used controls leads to awkward wrist postures

and contact stress.

Environmental ConditionsVibration• Continual exposure to hand/arm vibration occurs when there is a lack of

vibration damping underneath consoles. The vibration is transmitted fromoutside environment to the booth and operator.

CONSEQUENCES

• Continual exposure to hand/arm vibration and contact stress may lead toneurovascular damage.

• Signs and symptoms include pain, whitening of the fingers, and a loss of feelingand strength in the hand.

SUGGESTED SOLUTIONS

• For specific solutions that may prevent injuries to the Wrist/Hand, please seethe column labelled “Wrist/Hand” in the Summary of Solutions on pages 99 to102.


Back

LOW BACK Direct Risk Factors:Force


A Booth Operator may bend forwardand to the side in order to unjam logsor lumber.

A Booth Operator may also bend toobserve process flow or equipment.


• The spine is made up of 33 bones called vertebrae. Each ofthese vertebrae is specially designed to protect the spinal cordand provide support for the back. Between each of thevertebrae are discs. Discs have tough elastic walls that arefilled with a watery gel-like substance. These discs are likejelly donuts; when they are pressed down on one side, the otherside bulges and puts increased pressure on the wall of the disc.To maintain an even distribution of pressure across the discs,the spine has to be kept in the neutral posture.

DIRECT RISK FACTORSForce• Lifting increases the loading on the spine. Weight held in the

hands is transmitted to the low back. The greater the weight,the greater the loading on the structures of the low back.

Repetition• Repeated forward bending and lifting can gradually fatigue the structures of the

low back. If the repetitive stress is excessive, and recovery is not adequate, thedisc walls may fatigue to the point of injury.

Front

Neutral Spine

Low Back(lumbar spine)


Awkward Postures• Back muscles must support the weight of the upper body when leaning forward

or to the side. Increased bending of the back increases the loading on the spineand increases the pressure on the walls of the discs.


Workstation DesignAdditional Workstation Design Options• Booth Operators repeatedly bend forward or to the side because they are unable

to see parts of the log flow through the windows of the booth.• Forceful lifting occurs when there are jam-ups on log decks or transfer decks.

Forceful lifting after sitting for long periods of time increases the likelihood ofan injury.

CONSEQUENCES

• Repeatedly bending forward and to the side may lead to damage in the discwalls.

• Signs and symptoms may include muscle spasm and sharp or radiating pain inthe back and/or lower extremities.

SUGGESTED SOLUTIONS

• For specific solutions that may prevent injuries to the back, please see thecolumn labelled “Back” in the Summary of Solutions on pages 99 to 102.

• For exercises that can help to prevent back injuries, see the Back section of theBody Manual.


Back

LOW BACK Direct Risk Factors:Awkward Postures

Static PosturesVibration

A Booth Operator continually sits ona vibrating surface.


• The spine is made up of 33 bones called vertebrae. Each ofthese vertebrae is specially designed to protect the spinal cordand provide support for the back. Between each of thevertebrae are discs. Discs have tough elastic walls that arefilled with a watery gel-like substance. These discs are likejelly donuts; when they are pressed down on one side, the otherside bulges and puts increased pressure on the wall of the disc.To maintain an even distribution of pressure across the discs,the spine has to be kept in the neutral posture. Sitting will causethe pelvis to rotate out of a neutral posture, as the lumbar spinewill flatten.

DIRECT RISK FACTORS

Awkward PosturesStatic Postures• Sitting increases the loading on the walls of the discs. If the duration of sitting

is excessive, and the recovery is not adequate (e.g., spine not returned to neutralposture), the tissues may deform to the point of injury.

Front

Low Back(lumbar spine)

Neutral Spine


Vibration• Whole body vibration is usually transmitted through the seat into the low back.

Exposure to whole body vibration introduces a unique mechanical stress to thestructures of the spine that can significantly increase the loading on the lowback. Prolonged sitting on a vibrating surface may contribute to the gradualweakening of the lumbar discs.


Workstation DesignSeating• Sitting for long periods of time without adequate lumbar support will increase

muscle fatigue in the back.• Vibration can be transmitted to the Booth Operator through poorly damped

seating.

Environmental ConditionsVibration• Vibration from the machinery outside of the booth is transmitted to the seat and

console.

Work OrganisationTask Variability• Sitting for prolonged periods stresses the tissues of the low back. Allowing

these tissues to recover from stress can prevent injuries and increase tolerances.

CONSEQUENCES

• Continually sitting on a vibrating surface may lead to deformation in the discwalls and accelerated degeneration of the tissues.

• Signs and symptoms include muscle spasm and sharp or radiating pain in theback and/or lower extremities.

SUGGESTED SOLUTIONS

• For specific solutions that may prevent injuries to the back, please see thecolumn labelled “Back” in the Summary of Solutions on pages 99 to 102.

• For exercises that can help to prevent back injuries, see the Back section of theBody Manual.


ANKLE Direct Risk Factors:Repetition

Awkward Postures

A Booth Operator frequentlyactivates foot pedals in order tooperate loaders and deck chains.


• The muscle responsible for pulling the foot upwards is found in the front of theshin. Its tendon runs beneath thick bands at the ankle before attaching to thefoot bones.

DIRECT RISK FACTORS

Repetition• Repetitive use of foot pedals may gradually cause small tears in the muscle on

the front of the shin. If the repetitive stress is excessive, and recovery is notadequate, the small tears in the muscle on the front of the shin may progress to amore significant problem.

Awkward Postures• Lifting the foot to activate a foot pedal puts the ankle into an awkward posture,

which increases the loading in the muscle on the front of the shin. The furtheraway from the neutral posture the ankle is, the greater the loading to thismuscle. If the shoes worn are rigid or heavy, the loading is also increased.



Workstation DesignWorking Heights• Foot pedals with more height require larger ankle movements, increasing the

risk of injury.

CONSEQUENCES

• Repeated use of foot pedals can cause damage to the tissues in the shin.• Signs and symptoms include inflammation, and pain with walking.

SUGGESTED SOLUTIONS

• For specific solutions that may prevent injuries to the ankle, please see thecolumn labelled “Ankle” in the Summary of Solutions on pages 99 to 102.


Summary of Body Parts at Risk

NECK

• A Booth Operator must look to thesides, or to one side only, in order toobserve monitors and the millenvironment. An operator may alsolook up to view monitors andmirrors.

NECK/SHOULDER

• A Booth Operator frequently holdsone or both arms away from the bodyin order to operate controls.

ELBOW/WRIST

• A Booth Operator must gripjoysticks and other controls in orderto operate equipment.


WRIST

• A Booth Operator must grip controlswith the wrists bent in order tooperate equipment.

WRIST/HAND

• A Booth Operator rests thewrist/hand on controls or the consolewhen using obstructed controls, orbetween the use of controls.

LOW BACK

• A Booth Operator may bend forwardand to the side in order to unjam logsor lumber.

• A Booth Operator may also bend toobserve process flow or equipment.


LOW BACK

• A Booth Operator continually sits ona vibrating surface.

ANKLE

• A Booth Operator frequentlyactivates foot pedals in order tooperate loaders and deck chains.


Risk Factors by Body Part

Direct Risk Factors

Nec

k

Nec

k/Sh

ould

er

Shou

lder

Elb

ow/

Wri

st

Wri

st

Wri

st/

Han

d

Low

Bac

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Hip

Kne

e

Ank

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Foo

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Force !!!! !!!! !!!!Repetition !!!! !!!! !!!! !!!! !!!! !!!!Awkward Postures !!!! !!!! !!!! !!!! !!!! !!!!Static Postures !!!! !!!! !!!!Contact Stress !!!!Vibration - Whole body* !!!!Vibration - Hand Transmitted* !!!!

Indirect Risk FactorsN

eck

Nec

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ould

er

Shou

lder

Elb

ow/

Wri

st

Wri

st

Wri

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Han

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Low

Bac

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Hip

Kne

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Ank

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Foo

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Duration* Duration !!!! !!!! !!!! !!!! !!!! !!!! !!!!Working Reaches !!!! !!!! !!!!Working Heights !!!! !!!!Seating !!!!

WorkstationDesign

Floor SurfacesSize and Shape !!!! !!!!Load Condition andWeight Distribution

Characteristicsof ObjectsBeing Handled

Container, Tool andEquipment HandlesHeat Exposure ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦Cold Exposure ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ !!!!

♦♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

Lighting ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦Noise ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

EnvironmentalConditions

Vibration** ♦ ♦ ♦ !!!!♦

♦ !!!!♦

!!!!♦

♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

Work-Recovery Cycles ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦Task Variability ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ !!!!

♦♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

WorkOrganisation

Work Rate ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦* Extended exposure to any risk factor can increase the likelihood of injury. For solutions designed to decrease the duration ofexposure to any risk factor please refer to the Work Organisation section of the General Risk Factor Solutions Manual** Vibration is categorised under both direct and indirect risk factors. Vibration can directly increase the likelihood of injury tothe back and wrist as well as indirectly (environmental conditions) promote injuries in other parts of the body.

= Indicates that the risk factor was assessed and was not found to be a contributor to the body partproblem.

= Indicates that the risk factor assessed is commonly found in sawmills, and may need to beaddressed at your mill. See the appropriate section of the General Risk Factor SolutionsManual for more information.

= Indicates that the risk factor was assessed as a contributor to the body part problem. Please seethe Summary of Solutions Table on pages 99 to 102 for specific problem/solution information.Additional information on some risk factors can be found in the General Risk Factor SolutionsManual.

""""

!!!!


Injury Prevention

Injuries are prevented by …Decreasing loads and increasing tissue tolerances

Injuries may be avoidedby decreasing the sizeof the loads on thetissue.

Example – using atorque multiplierwrench to loosen bolts.

Injuries may beavoided byincreasing tissuetolerances, andallowing the body toendure more loading.

Example – usingmaintenanceexercises tostrengthen tissues.

Loa

d

Loa

d

Tolerance Tolerance

Time Time

Loa

d

Loa

d

Tolerance Tolerance

Time Time

Injury

NoInjury

Injury

NoInjury


Suggested Solutions

The previous page explains how injuries may be prevented by decreasing the loadon a tissue or by increasing the tissue tolerances. The Injury Prevention section ofthe Work Manual provides possible solutions that can be implemented to decreasethe size of the loads on the tissues.

Each of the solutions described in the Work Manual has a risk control icon. TheRisk Control Key provides guidelines on how to distinguish between differenttypes of risk controls. Generally, engineering, administrative, and work practicecontrols are considered more effective than the use of personal protectiveequipment to decrease the risk of musculoskeletal injuries.

The focus of the Injury Prevention section is on solutions developed following theergonomic investigation of the Booth Operator job. The solutions are presentedunder the headings of Workstation Design, Characteristics of Objects BeingHandled, Environmental Conditions, and Work Organisation.

The Summary of Solutions table provides a quick reference guide to solutions forspecific body part problems.

Please note that the information provided in the Body Manual addresses the issueof injury prevention in terms of increasing tissue tolerances through exercise. Thisinformation is not provided in the Work Manual.


Risk Control Key

Risk control measures (solutions) are commonly grouped into four categories:

E ENGINEERING CONTROLS

These include physical changes to workstations, equipment, materials,production facilities, or any other relevant aspect of the work environment,that reduce or prevent exposure to risk factors.

A ADMINISTRATIVE CONTROLS

These include any change in procedure that significantly limits dailyexposure to risk factors, by control or manipulation of the work schedule ormanner in which work is performed. Administrative controls include, butare not limited to, job rotation, rest breaks, alternative tasks, jobenlargement, redesign of work methods, and adjustment of work pace oroutput. Some models of risk control include work practice controls withinthis category.

WP WORK PRACTICE CONTROLS

These include techniques used to perform the tasks of a job, such asreaching, gripping, using tools and equipment, or discarding objects, etc.Education and training are an integral part of work practice controls.

PPE PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

These are devices worn by a worker to reduce the risk of injury, includinggloves, kneepads, hearing protection, and leather aprons.

On the following pages, the icons next to the solution options indicate the typeof risk control.


Workstation Design

WORKING REACHES

A working reach that is too far for the worker will require stressful shoulder,elbow, wrist, and back postures. Reaching to the side, behind, or too far in front ofthe body can put stress on the smaller muscles. Ideally, working reaches should bewithin a normal reach envelope, as laid out below, with the controls and materialsthat are handled most often closest to the body. It is also ideal to have controls thatperform similar or combined functions grouped together to decrease awkwardpostures that may otherwise occur.

Generally, the most frequently used items should be placed within a forearm’sreach, with less frequently used items placed within a comfortable arm’s reach, andinfrequently used items placed within a fully extended arm’s reach. For morespecific recommendations on working reaches, please consult anthropometrictables or an ergonomist.

Neutral posture

WP Keeping shoulders in a neutral posture throughout the workday willdecrease the amount of strain in the shoulder joint and the shouldermuscles.

Padding on console

E Contact stress at the elbow is caused when console surfaces do not have anypadding supporting the forearm. The padding should be wide enough tosupport the whole forearm and the height of the padding should be highenough to maintain a neutral wrist posture when operating controls,especially joystick type controls.

1 = Controls/items most frequently used2 = Controls/items less frequently used3 = Controls/items least frequently used


Moving console

E Holding the arms away from the body places an increased load on theshoulder. Some split consoles have a large distance between them andrequire the operators to hold their arms away from the body.

To decrease this load on the shoulder, consoles should be put on moveabletracks to allow the operators to bring them closer. By moving the consolescloser to the body, the amount of shoulder abduction will be decreased.

Range of motion in controls

E In order to reduce loading on the shoulder, limit the amount of travel in thelevers to operate equipment.

In order to reduce awkward postures of the wrist/hand, decrease the range ofmotion (ROM) of the joysticks. By decreasing the ROM of the joysticks thewrist will be in a more neutral posture more often.

Research equipment or workstation layout with operators

A A Booth Operator can effectively identify potential challenges withawkward and static postures by being part of the purchasing process. Ifpossible, mock-up the workstation area and attempt to anticipate issues thatmay arise. In some cases it may be practical to speak with suppliers aboutusing their equipment for a trial period. Investigating with operators willminimise the need to retrofit equipment and workstations.

Control distance while seated

EWP

In order to reduce loading on the neck, shoulder, and back keep controlsclose to the body by moving the seat forward on slide tracks and/orextending controls into safe reach envelopes. This adjustability isimportant to accommodate operators of different sizes.


WORKING HEIGHTS

A working height that is too high for the worker will require stressful shoulder andarm postures, while a height that is too low will require stressful bending of theneck and trunk. The height of a work surface should allow room to changeposition and move the legs and feet (WCB Draft Ergonomic Regulations, 1994).

The ideal workstation is height adjustable, allowing a large percentage of thepopulation to adjust the work surface height to suit their dimensions

To determine the appropriate work height specific for the Booth Operator, identifythe body part of most concern. If the main concern is the:Neck - minimise forward bending of the neck by increasing working height.Shoulders - minimise elevation of the arms by lowering working height.Low Back - minimise forward bending of the back by increasing working height.

For more specific guidelines on matching the working heights with the tasksperformed please consult anthropometric tables or an ergonomist.

Adjust chair

WP Adjust the height of the chair to reduce shoulder elevation.

Arm supports

EWP

In order to reduce awkward and static postures of the neck/shoulder andwrist when operating controls while seated, consider the height of thecontrols and arm supports. A Booth Operator’s elbows and forearmsshould sit comfortably on the arm supports with the shoulders relaxed andthe wrists free for using controls. Arm supports that are well-padded arepreferred. The support provided by these arm supports reduces muscletension and fatigue in the neck and shoulder.

Booth Operators should be encouraged to use the arm supports to relax themuscles in the neck/shoulder region when there is a break in the workloadwhen in a seated position. Placing the elbows and forearms on the armsupports while taking these microbreaks will allow working muscles torecover and repair.

Operate controls at appropriate heights

EWP

In order to decrease awkward shoulder and wrist postures, controls shouldbe located in the waist to mid-chest level while seated. It may be necessaryfor the operator to move closer to the controls by adjusting the seatforward/backward or up/down (keeping in mind possible obstructions).


SEATING

Many Booth Operators are required to sit when operating controls. Sitting for longperiods of time increases the load on the spine, which stresses the ligaments anddiscs of the low back. The load is increased when the Booth Operator does notmaintain a neutral spine (see Injury Education for the Low Back on page 69).

Lumbar support

E In order to reduce awkward postures in the low back while seated,adjustable lumbar support should be provided. Seats that wrap around thelow back and allow the curve in the low back to be maintained should beconsidered for purchase. Padded lumbar cushions can also be added toexisting seats.

Adjustable seating

E In order to minimise awkward and static postures of the low back, seatingshould have several adjustable features (see list below) to accommodatevarious operators, and allow for continual postural adjustments.

• Seating should have adjustable lumbar support• Seats should be adjustable forward/backward and up/down• Seats should have seat pans which tilt forward and backward• Seats should be air-ride, or have vibration damping cushions• Seats should be covered with a breathable, non-slip material


Vary body posture

WP In order to reduce awkward and static postures in the low back, encouragethe Booth Operator to get up from the seated posture throughout the day.This alleviates the load on the spine, allows the discs to equalise, and allowsligaments to regain their stiffness after being stretched out from sitting.

Seat maintenance

EA

WP

Seats and supports are the only layer of protection between an operator andwhole-body vibration transmitted from equipment. For these reasons, seatsneed to be properly maintained to help prevent injuries.

Seat maintenance should begin when a workstation is being created orrenovated. Many equipment manufacturers offer a selection of seats. Usethe information on the previous page to select a seat that satisfies yourergonomic criteria. Where possible, have the intended operators try severaldifferent seat styles before deciding on a seat design. If the manufacturerdoes not offer seats of suitable quality, it might be necessary to order acustom seat. Remember: heavy equipment manufacturers do not specialisein ergonomic seat design. Good quality seats may require separate orderingand installation.

Any new seat should come with a clear set of instructions for adjustmentand use. Photocopy a set of these instructions for each operator, andlaminate another copy for prominent viewing in the work area. Make sureall operators are familiar with the purpose and use of all seat features.

Regular seat maintenanceRegular seat maintenance should follow a schedule based on duration of use.At the prescribed time, all components of the seat should be inspected forwear, and damaged parts should be replaced. This inspection should includeseat suspension, seat cushioning, seat covering, and arm supports. Seatsshould be replaced when they are too worn, or when they can no longer berepaired to safe working levels. Seats, like work boots, have a life spanlimited by their daily exposure to vibration, shock impact, and continuousload bearing.

Daily inspection of seat

AWP

Seat users should also be responsible for ongoing maintenance. A shortdaily inspection of the vehicle seat could identify wear or damage before itbecomes a major problem. Keeping the seat as clean as possible andregularly using all adjustments on the chair can also help to minimiseuneven wear and prevent damage.


FOOT PEDALS

Recessed foot pedals

E In order to minimise awkward postures of the ankle, recess foot pedals intoanti-fatigue matting to decrease the height of the foot pedal base. To recessfoot pedals, and provide a more comfortable standing surface in theprocess, position anti-fatigue matting as close as possible to the foot pedalbase. If the pedals are stationary, cut the matting to surround the front ofthe foot pedal. For moveable foot pedals, place the matting as close to thebase of the foot pedal as possible. The height of the matting should notexceed the base of the foot pedal (see diagram below). It is important toensure pedals are kept clean of debris and are well maintained.

Foot push buttons

E In order to eliminate awkward ankle postures, foot buttons can be chosenover foot pedals in certain circumstances. In general, foot controls leavethe upper body free to manipulate or handle items, while still maintainingcontrol over the process or equipment. For processes or equipment thatrequire a control to produce a discrete action (e.g., on/off, start/stop) ormaintain a continuous process (e.g., movement of a chain), a foot pushbutton may be appropriate. The desired operation (e.g., chain running) iseasily activated by the weight of the operator on the push button. When thefoot is removed, the switch is deactivated, causing the process to stop. Forsafety reasons, a foot push button needs to be protected from accidentalactivation. A guard, similar to those used on foot pedals, may beappropriate.


Moveable foot pedals

EWP

In order to reduce awkward postures of the lower extremities, allowoperators to choose the most appropriate position for the pedals, based ontheir body dimensions and the workstation design.

Securing the foot pedals may be required or desirable. Three solutionsinclude:

1) Providing moveable foot pedals on a metal plate. The foot pedals arepositioned in slide tracks cut into the metal, which allow pedals to moveinto the desired positions. The pedals are then fastened into place. Theoperator is able to move the set of foot pedals to any desired position inthe workstation.

2) Providing several positions on the floor where clips or nails may be usedto secure foot pedals. If this option is considered, make sure eachpossible position is highly visible to all operators, to prevent tripping orinjuries.

3) Providing a physical link (e.g., a metal bar) between two foot pedalswith the same function. This solution is most appropriate where aworker may move to manipulate lumber but still needs to operate thefoot pedals.


ADDITIONAL WORKSTATION DESIGN OPTIONS

TV and computer monitors

E • Monitors that have to be observed repeatedly throughout the day shouldbe placed in front of the operator so they are able to see the monitor(s)more easily.

• Avoid putting cameras monitoring the process on vibrating surfaces. Avibrating video display can be a source of eyestrain.

• The flow of information between the monitors should reflect the flow ofthe process. For example, if the flow of a cant is from left to right, thenthe monitors should reflect that flow.

• Position the most important monitor information within easy view of theoperator, directly in front of the operator.

• Provide a minimal number of monitors to view the necessarycomponents of the process. A split-screen can be used to view anumber of processes or different views of the same process rather thanusing individual monitors. Additional monitors can be provided butthey should not be positioned directly in front of the operator if they areonly used occasionally.

• Provide colour monitors whenever possible. Do not use both black andwhite and colour monitors in the same viewing area.

• Constant movement of horizontal lines through the viewing monitors isan annoyance to operators. During set-up make sure the refresh rate ofthe screens is sufficient and that interference from electrical sources isminimised.

• Position monitors so that glare from light sources is not a problem.

Mirrors

WP • Position of mirrors should be easily adjustable for all operators.• Keep mirrors clean to make viewing easier for operators.• The reflective properties of the mirror should provide an undistorted

area view.• Be aware of reflections that may bother other operators in the area

during specific times of the day.• Take short breaks. Look down and close the eyes to allow them to re-

lubricate, and to allow eye muscles to relax.


Position of booth

E In order to reduce the amount of neck twisting, position the control boothas far back as possible to centralise the processes being monitored.

Button controls

E In order to reduce force and awkward postures in the hand/fingers, usecontrols (buttons, rocker switches) that are easy to activate. Buttons shouldbe spaced so that the thumb or fingers do not assume awkward postures toactivate them.


Additional Work Practices

View with eyes

WP In order to reduce awkward postures of the neck, rotate the eyes and neck,not just the neck, to view the work area. If neck twisting cannot be avoided,try to alternate turning the head in both directions. When twisting the head,keep the chin tucked in and the ears in alignment with the shoulders.

Stretches

WP In order to minimise awkward and static postures of the body related towarehouse work, use these stretches throughout the day to enhance tissuetolerance for those muscle groups. For additional stretches see the BodyManual.

Chin TuckWith your head upright, tuck chin in.You should feel a gentle stretch, inthe back of the neck. Hold for 20seconds and then relax. Repeat 3times.

Neck StretchTurn the head slightly to one side andreach for the ground behind you withthe opposite arm. Hold for 10seconds. Repeat 3 times on each side.

Shoulder CirclesRotate the shoulders in forwardcircles for 5 rotations. Repeatrotating the shoulders backward.


Shoulder StretchGently pull elbow towards oppositeshoulder, keeping both shouldersrelaxed. You should feel a mildstretch in the back of the shoulder.Hold for 5 seconds. Repeat with theother arm.

Upper Back & Chest StretchPlace the hands together in front ofthe body and push them outwards.Bring the arms behind the body andsqueeze the shoulder blades togetherwhile pressing the shoulders downand keeping the chin tucked in.Repeat 5 times.

Back ExtensionStart by standing in an uprightposition (the back is in neutralposture). Lean backwards slightly,pushing the hips gently forward.Hold for 5 seconds. Repeat 3 times.

Hands and Fingers StretchClench both fists and hold for 3seconds. Then open your hands andspread fingers apart. Hold for 3seconds. Repeat.


Wrist Flexor and ExtensorStretchWith your arm extended and fingerspointing up, gently pull hand towardsyour body until you feel a mild stretchin the forearm. (Note: do not stretchto the point where you feel pain ortingling). Hold for 15 to 30 seconds.Repeat with fingers pointing down.Repeat with the other arm.

Squats (low back)Place feet shoulder width apart, sit down and then stand backup. Repeat 5 times.

Hip Flexor StretchPlace one foot in front of the other and lower the body,keeping your pelvis tilted. You should feel this stretch in thefront hip and thigh of the back leg. Hold for 5 seconds.Repeat 3 times with each leg.

Hamstring StretchPlace the heel of one foot in front of the body, and bend theother leg. Keep your back upright and in the neutralposition. You should fell this stretch in the back of the thighof the forward leg. Hold for 5 seconds. Repeat 3 times witheach leg.


Characteristics of Objects Being Handled

Booth Operators are required to perform movements of the hand, wrist andshoulder repetitively throughout the shift. The types of controls used can effect theamount of force and type of movement that is required. The following sectionsoutline work practises for workers and design considerations for console controls.

Neutral wrist posture

WP Keep wrists in a neutral posture (straight wrist), when operating controls.

Neutral wrist posture – joystick use

WP If operating a joystick type control for long periods of time, provide softpadding in front of the joystick, high enough to keep the wrist in a neutralposture.

Power positions

WP Use power positions when handling loads or exerting force on objects.Using larger and stronger muscles when doing heavy or forceful workreduces the risk of muscle strain. For lifting, a power position is adoptedwhen a worker remembers to ‘lift with the legs, not the back’. This phraseis based on the fact that the muscles of the thighs are larger and morepowerful than the muscles of the low back. Other examples of using powerpositions include using leverage to help move heavy objects and lumberwhen possible, and using the hips and legs to push debris on the floor whensweeping.


Manual material handling

WP The following work practices refer specifically to manual material handlingtasks. These tasks include lifting, lowering, pushing, pulling, carrying, andholding objects.• Use the entire body, especially the large muscle groups of the lower

body, to perform a movement.• To reduce loading on the soft tissues of the back, lift heavy objects with

a neutral back posture while maintaining the 3-point curve (the natural“S” shaped curve of the back – see the Injury Education section formore information). Do not use pelvic tilt to position the trunk forlifting.

• Do not twist while holding or moving a load. This places the back in aweaker posture that can lead to injury.

• When possible, balance loads being carried on each side of the body.This minimises loading on the soft tissues of the back and hips.

• When lifting, carrying, or holding objects, keep them as close to thebody as possible. The farther the load is away from the body, the morestress it puts on the back.


SIZE AND SHAPE

Push button

E • As the button is activated, resistance should increase gradually, and thenrapidly disappear.

• The top of the button should prevent fingers, hands, or feet from slidingoff. Ideally, finger activated buttons are concave on top.

• Button activation should be associated with a sound or light display,especially in low light environments.

• Large push buttons, operated by the heel of the hand, are notrecommended if a foot or finger operated control can be used. For footpush buttons, only the front of the foot is used to produce the necessarysmall forces and strokes.

Toggle switch (2- or 3-position)

E • When control panel space is limited, toggle switches are used.• Toggle switch activation should be indicated by an associated sound.• If a number of switches are used, horizontal rather than a vertical

placement is preferable. Vertical placement requires more space inorder to avoid accidental operation.

• Three-position toggle switches (e.g., switches activating high, medium,and low settings) cannot be operated as quickly as 2-position toggleswitches.

Rotary selector switch (cylindrical or wedged)

E • The winged version has a pair of ‘wings’ above the cylindrical partacting as positional markers and as a finger grip.

• These switches require a relatively large amount of space for handactivation.

• Use as little of the control’s 360-degree rotation to accommodate thenumber of values required.

• Provide physical and/or auditory stops for each value in the range sothat the operator may count the appropriate number of steps if visualcontrol is not possible.

Knob

E • Sufficient space must be around the knob so fingers do not obscure thescale of the knob and proper grasping is possible.


Lever

E • Levers requiring considerable force should be activated at shoulderlevel for standing work, at elbow level for seated work, and preferablysomewhat to one side, not directly in front of the operator. The levershould move toward the axis of the body so that the body is subjected toas little torsion as possible. The location of the lever should be withinthe reach envelope.

• Lever length is dependent upon the task. For small displacements (lessthan 30 degrees)

• In order to minimise contact stress on the hands, controls should havecylindrical rather than ball shaped handles. This shape would allow fora more even distribution of contact with the lever. Grips should bemade of a material that allows for good contact and is not slippery (e.g.,bike handle foam coverings). Regardless of the shape of the levercontrol, the wrist should remain in a neutral position as often aspossible.


LOAD CONDITION AND WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION

Pike pole use

WP In order to reduce loading on the shoulder and back when handling logs onthe end of pike poles, pick the appropriate pike pole for the job. The pikepole should be longer than the distance from the operator to the object to beretrieved. This extra distance will prevent the pike pole from striking theoperator if the pike pole detaches from the object, and will also give theoperator some extra grip length if the pike pole pulls away from theoperator. Two hands should be used when handling the pike pole. Oncethe sharp end of the pike pole is stuck in the log, only pull on it twicebefore removing it from the wood. Repeat this process until the jam iscleared. Also, keep the body in a strong posture by keeping arms close tothe body, with elbows bent and wrists straight.

Lightweight, sharp tools

AWP

In order to decrease the force required on the shoulder and back by a BoothOperator, ensure that the tools used to manipulate the wood (e.g., pikepoles, picaroons) are lightweight and sharp.


CONTAINER, TOOL AND EQUIPMENT HANDLES

Modify tool handle friction

E In order to reduce the force required to grip hand tools, increase the frictionbetween the tool handles and the operator’s glove. Due to the smooth,slippery surface of metal or wooden tool handles (e.g., pike pole, picaroon)a Booth Operator must use a higher grip force in order to maintain controlof the tool. This can put the elbow, and possibly the wrist and hand, at riskof injury. Wrapping the tool handles with foam, rubber, medical/athletictape, or modifying the surface using other friction increasing material (e.g.,gritty paint if plastic substances are not allowed) would increase the frictionbetween the handle and the Booth Operator’s glove, and thus decrease thegrip forces required.

Padding for levers

E In order to reduce stress to hands, place foam covers on control handles.These covers reduce contact stress and damp vibration transmitted to thehands.

Gloves

PPE In order to reduce grip forces required by the Booth Operator, the operatorshould wear thin, close fitting gloves with a “sticky” palm surface toincrease the friction between the gloves and the tool handles.


Environmental Conditions

Vibration

E In order to minimise the level of vibration within the booth, the booth shouldbe isolated from the vibration source, and the worker should be providedwith damping devices (air cushioned chair, etc.). In some cases, thevibration created within the booth is a result of logs or cants hitting againstmetal during the process. Padding the metal surfaces with shock resistant orshock damping material should lower the level of vibration and noise insidethe booth.

Reduce glare

PPE To minimise awkward neck postures due to glare, operators may wearsunglasses, or windows can be treated to filter sunlight.

Please refer to the General Risk Factor Solutions Manual for solutions regardingother environmental conditions.

Work Organisation

Task variability

AWP

To reduce exposure to static sitting, encourage workers to occasionallyperform duties that require standing.

Please refer to the General Risk Factor Solutions Manual for solutions regardingwork organisation risk factors.


Summary of SolutionsRefer to the table below to help determine which solution alternatives will aid inaddressing risk factors in the particular body parts of concern.

Injury Prevention Potential

SOLUTIONSPage

Nec

k

Nec

k/Sh

ould

er

Shou

lder

Elb

ow/W

rist

Wri

st

Wri

st/H

and

Low

Bac

k

Hip

Kne

e

Ank

le

Foot

Neutral posture 80 AS

Padding on console 80 A C

Moving console 81 RAS

RA

RAS

Range of motion incontrols

81 A A

Research equipmentor workstation layoutwith operators

81 RAS

RAS

FRA

FRA

CV

FRASV

AS

Control distancewhile seated

81 A A

Adjust chair 82 AS

Arm supports 82 AS

AS

Operate controls atappropriate heights

82 A A

Direct Risk FactorsF = Force R = Repetition A = Awkward PosturesS = Static Postures C = Contact Stress V = Vibration




SOLUTIONSPage

Nec

k

Nec

k/Sh

ould

er

Shou

lder

Elb

ow/W

rist

Wri

st

Wri

st/H

and

Low

Bac

k

Hip

Kne

e

Ank

le

Foot

Lumbar support 83 A

Adjustable seating 83 AS

Vary body posture 84 AS

Seat maintenance 84 AV

Daily inspection ofseat

84 AV

Recessed foot pedals 85 A

Foot push buttons 85 A

Moveable foot pedals 86 A

TV and computermonitors

87 AR

Mirrors 87 AR

Position of booth 88 AR

Button controls 88 FA

View with eyes 89 A

Stretches 89 directly reduces risk of injury to the body





SOLUTIONSPage

Nec

k

Nec

k/Sh

ould

er

Shou

lder

Elb

ow/W

rist

Wri

st

Wri

st/H

and

Low

Bac

k

Hip

Kne

e

Ank

le

Foot

Neutral wrist posture 92 A

Neutral wrist posture– joystick use

92 A

Power positions 92 FA

Manual materialhandling

93 FA

Push button 94 C

Toggle switch (2- or3-position)

94 FA

Rotary selectorswitch (cylindrical orwedged)

94 A

Knob 94 A

Lever 95 C

Pike pole use 96 FA

Lightweight, sharptools

96 F





SOLUTIONSPage

Nec

k

Nec

k/Sh

ould

er

Shou

lder

Elb

ow/W

rist

Wri

st

Wri

st/H

and

Low

Bac

k

Hip

Kne

e

Ank

le

Foot

Modify tool handlefriction

97 F

Padding for levers 97 CV

Gloves 97 F

Vibration 98 V V

Reduce glare 98 A

Task variability 98 S

Heat Exposure " indirectly reduces risk of injury to the bodyCold Exposure " indirectly reduces risk of injury to the bodyLighting " indirectly reduces risk of injury to the bodyNoise " indirectly reduces risk of injury to the bodyVibration " directly reduces risk of injury to the back and wristRest breaks " indirectly reduces risk of injury to the bodyJob Rotation " indirectly reduces risk of injury to the bodyTask Rotation " indirectly reduces risk of injury to the bodyWork Pace " indirectly reduces risk of injury to the bodyScheduling " indirectly reduces risk of injury to the body

Direct Risk FactorsF = Force R = Repetition A = Awkward PosturesS = Static Postures C = Contact Stress V = Vibration" = See General Risk Factor Solutions Manual

See Disclaimer in PDA & Work Manual © 2000 IMIRP Society Booth MSI Safety Guide 103

BOOTH OPERATOR MSI SAFETY GUIDE

OBJECTIVE:To identify ergonomic risks involved in the Booth Operator job, and to reduce the potential for musculoskeletal injuries.More detailed information about risk reducing recommendations can be found in the Work Manual for the Booth Operator.

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ACTIVITY OF RISK DIRECT

RISK

FACTOR(S)

POTENTIAL HAZARDS SUGGESTED SOLUTIONS

Neck

A Booth Operatormust look to thesides, or to oneside only, in orderto observemonitors and themill environment.An operator mayalso look up toview monitors andmirrors.

Repetition

AwkwardPosture

StaticPostures

• When the head is repeatedly turned to the sideor bent backward, the muscles of the neck aresubjected to repeated stress with little time forrecovery. If the repetitive stress is excessive,and recovery is not adequate, the tissues canfatigue to the point of injury.

• Neck muscles are required to turn the head tothe side. The further the head is turned to theside, the greater the load on the muscles andtendons.

• Neck muscles must support the weight of thehead while in a backward bent position. Themore the neck is bent, the greater the load onthe muscles and tendons.

• When the neck is held still in a twisted position,the muscles of the neck must remain tense tomaintain that position. If the constant stress issufficient, and recovery is not adequate, thetissues may fatigue to the point of injury.

• If twisting cannot be avoided, try toalternate turning the head in bothdirections.

• When twisting the head, keep thechin tucked in and the ears inalignment with the shoulders.

• Turn with the eyes and neck, not justthe neck, to inspect work.

• For exercises that can help preventneck injuries, see the Neck sectionof the Body Manual.


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RISK

FACTOR(S)


Neck/Shoulder

A Booth Operatorfrequently holdsone or both armsaway from thebody in order tooperate controls.

Repetition

AwkwardPostures

StaticPostures

• When the arms are repeatedly lifted, themuscles of the neck and shoulder are subjectedto repeated stress with little or no time forrecovery. If the repetitive stress is excessive,and recovery is not adequate, the tissues mayfatigue to the point of injury.

• Neck and shoulder muscles must support theweight of the arms when they are away fromthe body. The farther away the arms are fromthe body, the greater the load on the musclesand tendons.

• When the arms are repeatedly held away fromthe body, the muscles of the neck and shouldermust remain tense to support the weight. If theduration of constant tension is excessive, andrecovery is not adequate, the tissues mayfatigue to the point of injury.

• Try to keep the arms as close to thebody as possible.

• Try to keep the arms supported onpadding or evenly across theconsole.

• Avoid sudden forceful movementsof the arms. Use smooth motionswhile keeping the arms close to thebody.

• For exercises that can help preventneck and shoulder injuries, see theNeck and Shoulder sections of theBody Manual.


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RISK

FACTOR(S)


Elbow/Wrist

A Booth Operatormust grip joysticksand other controlsin order to operateequipment.

Force

Repetition

AwkwardPostures

• Gripping an object requires activation of theforearm muscles, which generates tension at thetendon/bone connection of the elbow. Theharder that an object must be gripped, thegreater the load on the tendon/bone connection.

• The width of an object affects how muchmuscle tension needs to be generated. Usingeither an overly large or a small grip requiresmore muscle force, and can lead to tissuefatigue at the tendon/bone connection.

• Repeated stress to the elbow without adequaterest could fatigue tissues to the point of injury.

• The position of the wrist also affects how muchmuscle tension needs to be generated. Grippingobjects with the wrist bent increases the tensiongenerated by muscles.

• Grip controls lightly so that tensionin the forearm muscles/tendons isreduced.

• Keep wrists in a neutral (straight)position.

• For exercises that can help preventelbow injuries, see the Elbowsection of the Body Manual.


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RISK

FACTOR(S)


Wrist

A Booth Operatormust grip controlswith the wristsbent in order tooperate equipment.

Force

Repetition

AwkwardPostures

• Gripping an object requires activation of theforearm muscles, which generates tension in thetendons and tendon sheaths running through thewrist. The harder an object is gripped, thegreater the tension in the tendons. As tensionincreases, the pressure within the carpal tunnelmay also increase.

• Repeated gripping and bending of the wristcauses stress to the tendon sheaths. If therepetitive stress is excessive, and recovery isnot adequate, the tendon sheaths may fatigue tothe point of injury.

• As the wrist is bent, the tendon sheaths will rubup against the walls of the carpal tunnel. Thefurther the wrist is bent, the more frictionexperienced in the tendon sheaths.


• Protect the base of the hand - try tokeep pressure away from this area ofthe body.

• Grip controls lightly so that tensionin the forearm muscles/tendons isreduced.

• Keep wrists in a neutral (straight)position.

• See the Wrist section of the BodyManual.


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RISK

FACTOR(S)


Wrist/Hand

A Booth Operatorrests thewrist/hand oncontrols or theconsole whenusing obstructedcontrols, orbetween the use ofcontrols.

ContactStress

Vibration

• Contact between hard or sharp surfaces and thebase of the palm places stress on the tendonsand nerves in the carpal tunnel.

• Continual contact with hard or sharp surfacesmay damage the nerve and/or gradually weakenthe tendons, and cause injury.

• Exposure to vibration, through the use of powertools or through contact with other vibratingobjects, places a unique form of mechanicalstress on the tissues of the hand and wrist.Factors like vibration level and vibrationfrequency influence the amount of mechanicalstress.

• Continual exposure to hand/arm vibration maygradually damage neurovascular tissue (nervesand blood vessels) in the hand, and maycontribute to problems in the wrist.


• Protect the base of the hand - try tokeep pressure away from this area ofthe body.

• See the Wrist section of the BodyManual.


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RISK

FACTOR(S)


Low Back

A Booth Operatormay bend forwardand to the side inorder to unjamlogs or lumber.

A Booth Operatormay also bend toobserve processflow or equipment.

Force

Repetition

AwkwardPostures

• Lifting increases the loading on the spine. Weightheld in the hands is transmitted to the low back. Thegreater the weight, the greater the loading on thestructures of the low back.

• Repeated forward bending and lifting can graduallyfatigue the structures of the low back. If the repetitivestress is excessive, and recovery is not adequate, thedisc walls may fatigue to the point of injury.

• Back muscles must support the weight of the upperbody when leaning forward or to the side. Increasedbending of the back increases the loading on the spineand increases the pressure on the walls of the discs.

Low Back

A Booth Operatorcontinually sits ona vibrating surface.

AwkwardPosturesStaticPostures

Vibration

• Sitting increases the loading on the walls of the discs.If the duration of sitting is excessive, and the recoveryis not adequate (e.g., spine not returned to neutralposture), the tissues may deform to the point of injury.

• Whole body vibration is usually transmitted throughthe seat into the low back. Exposure to whole bodyvibration introduces a unique mechanical stress to thestructures of the spine that can significantly increasethe loading on the low back. Prolonged sitting on avibrating surface may contribute to the gradualweakening of the lumbar discs.

• Try to keep the back in aneutral position (ears,shoulders, and hips aligned).

• When lifting, hold objectclose to the body and do nottwist the torso.

• Maintain neutral postureswhile working in a vibratingenvironment (ears, shoulders,and hips aligned). Avoidtwisting, bending, andslouching.

• Ensure that your seat isproperly adjusted to supportthe curve in your lower spine.

• For exercises that can helpprevent low back injuries, seethe Back section of the BodyManual.


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RISK

FACTOR(S)


Ankle

A Booth Operatormust repeatedlyuse a foot pedalcontrol.

Repetition

AwkwardPostures

• The repetitive ankle flexion and extension thatoccurs when pressing foot pedals requires themuscles of the foot and lower leg to repeatedlycontract, with little time for recovery. This canlead to fatigue and can cause small tears todevelop in the muscles and tendons of the footand lower leg.

• Lifting the foot to activate a foot pedal puts theankle into an awkward posture, which increasesthe loading in the muscle on the front of theshin. The further away from the neutral posturethe ankle is, the greater the loading to thismuscle. If the shoes worn are rigid or heavy, theloading is also increased.

• Stretch the ankles before and duringwork to make sure the muscles andligaments are loose.

• If possible, alternate using the rightand left foot throughout the day tobalance the stress on the muscles ofthe lower leg and foot.

• Alternate using the toe of the footand the heel of the foot to activatethe foot pedals. This will use moremuscles of the leg, therebyincreasing circulation andminimising fatigue in this area.

• For exercises that can help preventankle/foot injuries, see the Footsection of the Body Manual.

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