Definition of Ergonomics
- optimizing the fit between the individual worker and the task that they are undertaking
- the science of designing workspaces, machine, and tasks with the capabilities and limitations of the human body in mind
Systems approach to ergonomics
- gives recognition to the fact that change or problems in one part of the working environment will affect all others
- worker and fast are at the center of model
- concentric circles demonstrate factors which may interact with the individual
OSHA guidlines
- establish accountability through a written plan
- demonstrate management commitment to workplace safety
- ensure employee buy in
- conduct a work risk analysis and an ergonomics survey
- develop and implement hazard controls
- provide management and employee training
- provide case management policies
- allow for ongoing feedback
PTs as Ergonomic Consultants
- Initiate prevention programs or work risk analysis to identify areas of risk
- analyze and comment various job categories and physical demands
- provide employer with report of risk factors
- Offer to establish training programs for managers and employees
- market services to business and industrial communities
purpose ergonomic assessment
- study the relationship between job demands, environmental conditions and human functional characteristics
- identify problem areas (risk factors: force, posture, time, cold, vibration)
- create customized educational sessions
ergonomic team
- administrators
- occupational health/ safety department
- employees
- consultants
ergonomic assessment tools
- injury and compensation records
- employer and employee surverys
- assessment checklists
Ergonomic Education to employees
- back facts
- common causes of back problems
- lifestyle, body mechanics, and fitness
- common misconceptions
- proper body mechanics and posture techniques
- general strengthening and flexibility exercises
- what to do if injury occurs
ergonomic education for management
- review of assessment findings
- discussion of areas of concern
- participation in employee education program
areas of concern
- work height
- work distance
- confined area or required twisting
- prolonged standing on hard, concrete surface
“regular”/ light work height
elbow height or shoulders flexed/abducted less than 45
precision work height
just above elbow height
heavy work height
just below elbow height
work distance
shoulders flexed/abducted less than 45 degress
consider eyesight
where should heavy/frequently used items be stores?
waist shoulder height
where should lighter/frequently used items be stored?
on higher shelves
where should rarely used items be stored
lower shelves
Chair specifications- seat
- height: hip/knees = 90/90
- depth: 1-3 inch gap
- width: 1 in on each side
- tilt (pan): 1-3 degrees
chair specifications - material
cloth
vinyl
leather
backrest height
- upright position: support lumbar and thoracic spine
- forward position (precision work): support lumbar spine
- reclined position: support the thoracic and cervical spine
where should lumbar support be?
L4-L5 level
backrest tilt
thigh/trunk greater than 90 degrees
arm rest height for resting
- just higher than position of 90 degrees elbow flexion
- takes stress off of cervical/thoracic spine and shoulder mm
what type of feets are best for safety/stability
pedestal style - 5 pronged/star system
