Implementation and Management of Ergonomics

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Implementation and Managementof Ergonomics
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What are Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders
(WMSDs)?

• Disorders of the muscles, nerves, tendons,
  ligaments, joints, cartilage, or spinal disc.

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Anatomy 101

• WMSDs are injuries and illnesses that affect
  muscles, nerves, tendons, ligaments, joints, or
  spinal discs.

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Progression of WMSD Illnesses
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Annual WMSD Experience
Source BLS
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Time Away From Work
Source BLS
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Ergonomic Risk Factors
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WMSD Risk Factors

• Age
• Highest rates of compensable back pain/strain.
• Men ages 20-24.
• Women ages 30-34.
• Gender
• WMSD male to female ratio 13.
• More women employed in hand-intensive jobs.
• Men and women tend to have different jobs.

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Ergonomics Program Steps
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Program Steps

• STEP 1 Looking for signs of work-related
  musculoskeletal problems.
• Recognizing signs that may indicate a problem.
• Determining a level of effort.

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Program Steps

• STEP 2 Setting the stage for action.
• Ergonomics as part of a company safety and health
  program.
• Expressions of management commitment.
• Benefits of worker involvement.

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Program Steps

• STEP 3 Training building in-house expertise.
• Ergonomics awareness training.
• Training in job analysis and control measures.
• Training in problem solving.
• Special considerations and precautions.

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Program Steps

• STEP 4 Gathering and examining evidence.

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Program Steps

• STEP 5 Developing controls.