When working in situations where at-risk behaviors exist, organizations must control the workplace environment by taking steps to keep their employees safe and healthy. While most of this can be accomplished through training, sometimes making physical changes to the work environment are the most effective to implement. However, those changes also can be cost prohibitive and impractical, which puts organizations between a rock and a hard place. Instead of re-engineering an entire assembly line or workstation, organizations can utilize industrial ergonomics programs designed by BIOKINETIX to help keep their employees healthy, safe and working efficiently.
What is Industrial Ergonomics?
Industrial ergonomics is concerned with the fit between workers and their work activities. It puts workers first, taking into account their capabilities and limitations to ensure the tasks, equipment and environment are adapted to their abilities. In practice, it helps workers adopt proper body mechanics by maintaining correct posture and avoiding forceful, repetitive or awkward movements.
Principles of Industrial Ergonomics
Applying the basic principles of ergonomics helps organizations reduce the risks of work-related injuries. BIOKINETIX has assembled the most effective industrial ergonomics programs for workers:
- Work in Neutral Postures — Those who work for long periods of time in awkward or unnatural postures and positions are at an increased risk for back injuries. The best positions for workers are those that maintain the spine’s natural S curve.
- Reduce Excessive Force — Excessive force creates fatigue and later, joint injuries. Implementing measures to limit workers’ exposure to these forces can go a long way towards reducing exertion.
- Keep Objects Within Reach — Even repetitive reaching can result in injuries. Encouraging workers to keep frequently used objects inside the semi-circle that the arms make upon reaching out can help to prevent injuries.
- Work at Proper Heights — A mismatch in heights between workers and activities they perform increases the potential for injury. Providing adjustable height surfaces can help organizations accommodate the various height differences among workers.
- Reduce Excessive Motions — Minimizing the motions required to perform a task can lessen wear and tear on the body. One of the best ways organizations can assist workers in reducing repetitive motions is by encouraging them to use the most efficient, least injurious techniques.
- Provide Adequate Clearance — Lack of clearance can force workers to adopt contorted postures and use long reaches. Setting up workstations with clearance in mind enables workers to access tools and equipment without compromising their posture.
- Promote Exercise — Regular exercise helps strengthen the muscles so that they can better support the joints of the body. Done frequently and properly, exercise can assist workers in minimizing the risk of work-related injuries.
Injury-prevention ergonomic programs help reduce the excessive or abnormal stresses that contribute to work-related injuries. They also make work activities easier and faster, improving productivity for a better bottom line.
