1. Laboratory Ergonomics Risk Management Services Sumith Wijeweera Industrial Hygienist University of Arizona October 3, 2014

2. Erg onomics Basics The study of fitting the job to the individual  Match the design of tools, controls, and equipment to fit the needs of the user Poor design and poor working practices can lead to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs)  Ex: carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, sciatica, etc. Injuries are most likely to occur when people work in awkward postures or using repetitive motions for an extended amount of time

3. Minimize Risk Factors The most prominent ergonomics risks are: Forceful exertions Repetitive motions Awkward postures Static postures Cold temperatures Compression/contact stress Poor lighting Vibration

4. Boost your Lab Ergo IQ 1. Start with proper attire.  Shoes: cushioned sole, closed toes and heels, impervious material  Loose-fitting clothing may interfere with work 2. Pay attention to posture.  Keep feet flat (adjust height or use footrest)  Keep your back straight

5. Boost your Lab Ergo IQ 4. Embrace the mini break to avoid fatigue.  Plan short breaks into your day after 20 minutes at any task or any time you are doing a repetitive task  Quick mini breaks (2-3 minutes) or changing tasks 5. Reduce contact stressors  Pad sharp edges or provide arm supports 6. Be mindful of work zones  Arrange frequently used items to minimize reaching

6. Neutral & Awkward Posture Neutral posture is a position that puts no stress on the body; positions that induce stress are awkward postures Cumulative stress over time can lead to injury or musculoskeletal disorders.

7. Arm Strength = Neutral Posture

8. Hand Posture

9. Posture

10. Microscopes Awkward Neutral

11. Standing Foot rests Floor mats

12. Standing – Bench Height Typical laboratory bench height is ~ 94cm

13. Optimal Work Zone

14. Sitting Desk cut-outs allow you to be closer to the work zone Keep cut-outs free of clutter

15. Chairs Chairs should be adjustable in order to fit a wide variety of employees

16. Lab Hoods Relaxed posture reduces stress on the worker Elbow/Arm padding to reduce contact stress Angled containers reduce reaching

17. Pipetting AwkwardNeutral

18. Neutral Posture When Pipetting

19. Pipet Safety & ergonomics

20. Pipetting Angled bottle rests and waste containers reduce reaching

21. Laboratory PPE Consider a shoe cover dispenser to reduce stretching when donning PPE for a clean room or BSL-3 area http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x2vPV-z234A http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x2vPV-z234A