Ergonomics Awareness at Jefferson Lab

Two Models of Ergonomic Values Medical Model Injury can be prevented or treated by ergonomic excellence. Productivity Model Most ergonomic flaws do not cause injury, but ergonomic excellence can make employees more comfortable. This can increase work quality and productivity by allowing employees to think more about their work and less about their bodily sensations. Both Models are Valid and Important

Goals of Ergonomics Medical Model: –Prevent Injury –Treat Injury Productivity Model: –Enhance Happiness –Increase Comfort –Increase Work Quality –Increase Productivity

Biomechanical Principles of Ergonomics Maximize Time in Neutral Position “Neutral” typically refers to body position when muscles are relaxed. Neutral position is also called “position of function,” or “natural” position. Minimize Time in Unnatural Posture “Unnatural” posture typically refers to an awkward position. Also stated as “minimize angle” meaning to deviate from neutral. Minimize Force Exerted by Muscles Minimize Frequency of Repetitious Motions Combination of high force and high frequency. Example: forceful gripping while the wrist is flexed is a risk factor for carpal tunnel syndrome and wrist tendonitis. Miscellaneous Variables Example: vibration. However, keep in mind that the biomechanical principles above are almost universally relevant.

Employer’s Role in Ergonomics Educate employees about controls and consistently enforce them so they become integrated into the work culture Engineered Controls Typical safety interventions are machines, devices, and instruments. Examples include: lifting devices, ergonomically appropriate carts and casters, seat belts, air bags, etc. Work Practice Controls Typical safety interventions are work procedures, restrictions, and rules. Examples include: “Required hand rail use,” “Do not lift objects heavier than 50 pounds without assistance,” and, “Do not exceed the posted speed limit.” Administrative Controls Typical safety interventions are employer’s standards. Examples include: Job rotation to decrease repetitive stress during a specific task, and requiring prompt reporting of symptoms to facilitate protective temporary medical work restrictions.

Ergonomics in Work Planning and Control Initiate Incorporate ergonomic biomechanical principles (i.e.: minimize force, angle, and frequency) into the work plan and control stage. Retrospective Evaluate ongoing work for ergonomic enhancements. Useful when prospective thought fails to foresee opportunities for improvement. If potential ergonomic flaws and/or controls are unclear, Contact Occupational Medicine at x5585

Summary Ergonomic Excellence Great value includes and transcends the traditional goal of preventing injury. Engineered, Work Practice, and Administrative Controls Serve to minimize force, angle, and frequency. Work Planning and Control Stages Strive to apply ergonomic excellent principles before and during work. Consult Occupational Medicine for assistants (x5585)