Ergonomics

People

Task

Learning Objectives

At the conclusion of this training you will be able to:

– Explain ergonomic principles

– Identify risks involved with working

Additionally you will :

– Understand how the use of good ergonomic principles keep you safe

Applications of Ergonomics

Why is Ergonomics Challenging?

People are different

Anatomy

Anatomy

Tendons

Muscles and Joints

• Need rest to recover

• Need good circulation

• Maintain strength

Neutral Position

Risk Factors

• Repetitive Motions

• Forceful Exertions

• Awkward Posture

• Contact Stress

• Vibration

Repetitive Motions

• No Rest for muscles and joints

• Inflammation of tendons, nerves & joints

• Loss of strength (Muscle fatigue)

• Decreased circulation

• Body position

Forceful Exertions

• Inflammation of tendons, nerves & joints

• Poor grip (gloves, handles)

• Loss of circulation

• Loss of strength (Muscle fatigue)

Awkward Posture

• Poor circulation

• Arms above heart

• Extended reach

• Holding a fix position (static)

• Twisting or bending

Contact Stress

• Loss of circulation

• Inflammation to tendons, nerves & joints

Vibration

• Poor circulation

• Inflammation of tendons, nerves & joints

Manufacturing Ergonomics

Risks:

• Twisting or extending reach

• Overhead Work (Circulation)

• Repetition without rest

• Standing Static (Circulation)

• “Burping cases” (Palm as Hammer)

• Resting on sharp edges (Circulation)

• Number of task movements

Manufacturing ErgonomicsInjury Prevention:

• Warm up muscles, joints

• Neutral Position

• Rotate muscle groups

• Do not rest on sharp edges

• Good grip

• Switch feet positions

• Take micro breaks

Office Ergonomics

Risks:

• Poor posture (tilted head, hunched)

• Poor lighting

• Long reach

• Poor chair position

• Poor monitor position

• Resting on sharp edges

Office Ergonomics

Injury Prevention:

• Neutral Position

• Arms close to body

• Knees bent at 90o, feet flat while sitting

• Monitor at correct height

• Rest wrists while typing

• Take breaks and stretch

Ergonomics Team

• Evaluate each task

• Reduce the number of movements

• Provide Feedback

• Provide Ideas

• Feasibility

If Signs of Injury Exist

• Inform Supervisor immediately

• Complete an injury report

• Rest specific body part

• Ice

• Early intervention is the key