Ergonomics

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Ergonomics
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Definition

• Ergonomics is the science and practice of
  designing jobs or workplaces to match the
  capabilities and limitations of the human body.
• Or,
• The science of designing the job to fit the
  worker, not forcing the worker to fit the job.

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Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs)

• A term in scientific literature that refers
  collectively to a group of injuries and illnesses
  that affect the musculo-skeletal system.
• Many MDS conditions are grouped under the terms,
  cumulative or repeated traumas, repetitive motion
  injuries or repetitive strain syndrome.
• Examples include
• Tendinitis
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Degenerated, bulging or ruptured disks in the
  neck or back

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MSD Symptoms

• Pain from movement, pressure, or exposure to
  cold or vibration
• Change in skin color
• Numbness or tingling in an arm, leg, finger,
  especially at night
• Decreased range of motion
• Decreased grip strength
• Swelling of a joint or part of the arm, leg,
  hand, or finger
• Fatigue or difficulty sustaining performance

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Contributing Workplace Factors

• 1.Prolonged repetitive motion
• 3. Awkward Postures

• 2. Forceful exertions
• 4. Environmental factors

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Ergonomic Evaluations-T.U. Policy
ProceduresOEHSs Role

• Conduct ergonomic evaluation if
• Individual is diagnosed with an MSDs
• Individual is experiencing MSD signs or symptoms
• (3) Individual is identified with special needs
• (4) Workplace planning dictates the need

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Supervisors Role

• Assist the OEHS in
• ID of problems
• Recognizing when someone may be experiencing
  symptoms of an MSD
• Recognizing when stresses in a job have the
  potential for contributing to an MSD
• Train workers on how to use tools and equipment
  properly
• Make sure employees are working in the best way
  possible

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Reducing the Risks-MSD Hazard Controls

• Controls that can be implemented to reduce MSD
  hazards to the extent that they are no longer
  reasonably likely to cause MSDs that result in
  work restrictions or medical treatment beyond
  first aid y include
• Administrative Controls
• Engineering Controls
• Workplace Controls

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REMEMBER!!

• The overall intent is to
• Reduce the number and severity of musculoskeletal
  disorders (MSDs) caused by exposure to risk
  factors in the workplace.
• Ensure OSHA Compliance
• Ergonomic improvements, in most cases
• improve productivity
• allow one to work more efficiently and
  effectively and
• help one feel better while at work.

• 4. Contact the OEHS for
• a. Ergo evaluations, screensavers, assistance
• b. Websites
• For offices
• http//www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/computerworkstati
  ons/index.html
• For labs
• http//odp.od.nih.gov/whpp/ergonomics/laboratory.
  html
• http//www.niehs.nih.gov/odhsb/ergoguid/
• For Facilities
• http//www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/ergonomics/

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QUESTIONS

• Kim Dunn Chapital
• Occupational Health Manager
• T.U. OEHS
• 988-2870 (phone)
• kchapit_at_tulane.edu