Ergonomics

Ergonomics is the science of fitting workplace conditions and job demands to the capabilities of the working population. Effective and successful "fits" assure high productivity, avoidance of illness and injury risks, and increased satisfaction among the workforce. Although the scope of ergonomics is much broader, the term here refers to assessing those work-related factors that may pose a risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and recommendations to alleviate them. Common examples of ergonomic risk factors are found in jobs requiring repetitive, forceful, or prolonged exertions of the hands; frequent or heavy lifting, pushing, pulling, or carrying of heavy objects; and prolonged awkward postures. Vibration and cold may add risk to these work con-ditions. Jobs or working conditions presenting multiple risk factors will have a higher probability of causing a musculoskeletal problem. The level of risk depends on the intensity, frequency, and duration of the exposure to these conditions and the individuals' capacity to meet the force of other job demands that might be involved.

Process for Protecting Employees

For many operations, the number and severity of injuries resulting from physical overexertion, as well as associated costs, may be substantially reduced. OSHA recommends that employers develop a process for systematically addressing ergonomic issues in their work environments and incorporate this process into their existing safety and health programs. To be most effective, the process should be tailored to an individual warehouse’s operations.

Providing Management Support Strong support by management is critical for the overall success of an ergonomics process. OSHA recommends that workplaces develop clear goals and objectives for the ergonomics process, discuss them with the employees, assign responsibilities to the designated staff members to achieve those goals, and provide feedback to employees. Implementation of an effective ergonomics process includes a sustained effort, the coordination of activities, and the resources necessary to ensure that the objectives of the ergonomics process will be accomplished.

Involving Employees Employees are a vital source of information about hazards in their workplaces. They have a unique insight into the problems of their jobs and can assist in identifying work-related risk factors. Employees’ opinions and suggestions for change are valuable, particularly in such a difficult and complex work environment as a warehouse. Employees can provide early reports of MSD symptoms, submit their concerns and suggestions for reducing exposure to risk factors, and evaluate the changes made because of an ergonomic assessment. They can also participate in other activities such as ergonomic task groups and respond to management surveys and questionnaires.

Providing TrainingTraining is also an important element of the ergonomics process. Training ensures that employees are informed about ergonomic concerns in the workplace and ways to minimize the risk of injury. Individuals who have experience with ergonomic issues within warehouses best provide training. Training should be provided in a manner and language that all employees can understand.

Training prepares employees for active participation in the ergonomics process, including identifying potential problems, implementing solutions, and evaluating the process. Effective training includes:

• Proper use of equipment, tools, and machine controls;
• Good work practices, including proper lifting techniques;
• Awareness of work tasks that may lead to pain or injury;
• Recognition of MSDs and their early indications;
• Addressing early indications of MSDs before serious injury develops; and
• Warehouse procedures for reporting work-related injuries and illnesses as required by OSHA's injury and illness recording and reporting regulation (29 CFR 1904).