The document discusses ergonomics, emphasizing its importance in preventing injuries and optimizing work environments for better safety and performance. It outlines risk factors, benefits of ergonomic practices, and methods for analyzing work tasks to mitigate discomfort and fatigue. Practical recommendations for improving ergonomics in both industrial and office settings are also provided.

1. ErgonomicsIndustrial and OfficePrepared by: Dan Sawalldan.sawall@yahoo.comhttp://www.linkedin.com/in/dansawall

2. What is Ergonomics?Ergonomics is not an exact science and can be open to interpretation. However a little common sensegoes a long way.Ergonomics is:A study of the relation between people and their work environment.

3. Used to prevent injuries and illnesses associated with the design of physical work.

4. Science of fitting the work to the user instead of forcing the user to fit the work.

5. Used to increase employee safety and comfort and to optimize work performance and quality.2

6. Why Do We Need Ergonomics?Examples of work requirements that can cause discomfort, fatigue, injury, and illness are:Stretching to reach

7. Repeated heavy lifting

8. High pinch forces

9. Working with hands above shoulders

10. Handling objects that are sharp, very hot, or very cold.

11. Long periods of work without a change in body posture.Effects on the CompanyEffects on the OperatorFatigue

12. Pain

13. Illness – sprains, back ache, etc.

14. Low morale

15. Frustration & Irritation

16. Poor Quality

17. Absenteeism

18. Higher costs

19. Higher employee turnover & training3

20. What are the Benefits?If people feel more at ease and comfortable on the job, they will be safer and there is a higher chance of quality productivity.Higher productivity

21. Higher quality

22. Reduced operator injury

23. Increased morale

24. Greater job satisfaction

25. Lower medical & insurance costs

26. Reduced lost time

27. Lower absenteeism

28. Less employee turnover4

29. What are the risks?Physical Activity

30. Fatigue

31. Physical Exertion