Rutherford County

Ergonomics

Fall 2008

So What is Ergonomics?

…the science and practice of designingjobs and workplaces to match thecapabilities and limitations of the human body.

Ergonomics means: “designing the job to fit the worker, as

opposed to the worker fitting the job”

What are the Benefits?

Ideally, Ergonomics…….

Makes the job safer by preventing injury and illness

Makes the job easier by adjusting the job to the worker

Makes the job more pleasant by reducing physical and mental stress

Course Outline:

Objectives: Define Ergonomics and its benefits

Identify certain types of Ergonomic areas

Suggest solutions to potential work problems

5-Question Quiz at end for comprehension

2 Certain Types

Work-Related Musculo-Skeletal Disorders (WMSDs) Frequent or awkward lifting of heavy objects,

loads, etc. Pushing, pulling or carrying loads Working in awkward postures

Office Ergonomics Computer workstations

Risk Factors Time Frame

Duration of exposure Frequency

How often the motion is repeated Intensity

Weight of items lifted and relocated

Alternatives to Lifting:

Reducing Low Work:

Raise and/or tilt the work for better access

Use a stool for ground level work

Alternate between bending, kneeling, sitting and squatting

Alternatives to Lifting:

Reducing High Work:

Use an elevated work platform or rolling stairs

Use tools with longer handles

Limit overhead storage to infrequently used items

Bring work down to a more comfortable level and tilt for easier access

Office Ergonomics

Risk Factors Leaning forward at your desk

Typing with wrists at odd angle

Raising shoulders while typing

Reaching to use mouse

Twisting neck to look at monitor or phone

Lifting objects from below waist or above shoulders

Ways to Help Yourself Avoid leaning forward at your Desk

Maintain a natural “S” curve of your spine

Sit up straight and do not slump

Sit close to your workspace

Keep feet supported

Get up periodically and stretch

Some Warning Signs Discomfort

Pain

Numbness

Tingling

Tightness, loss of flexibility

Swelling

Symptom Recognition & Reporting

Report Symptoms if:

Pain is persistent, severe or worsening

Pain radiates

Symptoms include numbness or tingling

Symptoms keep you from sleeping at night

Teamwork Look at jobs in a different way

Come up with solutions

Work with solutions

Take part in Training

Take responsibility for changing the way you do your job

Help to ensure efforts are successful

5 Keys to Remember1. Ergonomics can help improve your job

2. WMSDs can happen in jobs with risk factors

3. Risk Factors can be reduced and WMSDs prevented

4. Reporting symptoms early is important!!

5. You can help your department put ergonomics changes into place

Quiz

Click here to take a quick five question quiz.