ERGONOMIC PRINCIPLES

Ergonomics refers to fitting an external environment to a person’s needs. Applying ergonomic principles in a work environment helps reduce the risk of workplace injuries. Ergonomics also boosts efficiency and productivity by reducing discomfort.

The main goal of ergonomics is to reduce the incidence of soft tissue injuries and musculoskeletal disorders that may be caused by sudden force, repetitive motions, workplace vibration, awkward posture, and sustained manual handling.

To create an ergonomic work environment, risk factors must first be identified, and then reduced or eliminated through improved work space setup, displays, tools, controls, equipment, and lighting. Each modification should accommodate the person’s physical capabilities at the workplace as well as the individual’s limitations.

WORK-RELATED TASKS

Some common ergonomic risk factors associated with work-related tasks include:

• Awkward postures.
• Prolonged positions.
• Repetitive movements.
• Excessive force.
• Contact stress.
• Vibration.
• Environmental conditions such as heat, cold, loud noise and poor visibility.
• Vibration.