OSHA defines Ergonomics as "The science of fitting the job to the worker. When there is a mismatch between the physical requirements of the job and the physical capacity of the worker, work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) can result. Workers who must repeat the same motion throughout their workday, who must do their work in an awkward position, who must use a great deal of force to perform their jobs, who must repeatedly lift heavy objects or who face a combination of these risk factors are most likely to develop WMSDs."
( Stakeholder Newsletter; OSHA, September, 1999)
How serious a problem are WMSDs?
In 1996, U.S. workers experienced more than 647,000 lost workday WMSDs. WMSDs now account for 34 percent of all lost workday injuries and illnesses. These injuries cost business $15 to $20 billion in workers' compensation costs each year. Indirect costs may run as high as $45 to $60 billion.
Workers who experience WMSDs may be unable to perform their jobs or even simple household tasks. WMSDs represent real workplace problems faced by real people. The scientific basis for the relation between work and development of WMSDs and for addressing ergonomic problems in the workplace is well established.
What can be done to prevent WMSDs?
Real solutions have been demonstrated in workplaces of all sizes across a broad range of industries. Many employers have developed effective ergonomics programs and common sense solutions to address WMSDs in their workplaces.
Often WMSDs can be prevented by simple and inexpensive changes in the workplace. Adjusting the height of working surfaces, varying tasks for workers and encouraging short rest breaks can reduce risks. Reducing the size of items workers must lift or providing lifting equipment also may aid workers. Specially designed equipment, such as curved knives for poultry processors, may help.
What components should an ergonomics program include?
OSHA has identified the following critical elements: management leadership and employee participation, hazard identification and information, job hazard analysis and control, employee training, medical management and program evaluation. The agency also intends to include in the rule a grandfather clause for existing programs.
The keys to success are simple: reduce repeated motions, forceful hand exertions, and prolonged bending or working above shoulder height. Reduce vibration. Rely on equipment-not backs-for heavy or repetitive lifting. Provide "micro" breaks to allow muscles to recover.
Liberty Physical Therapy is committed to applying the principles of Ergonomics to address all of our patient's needs by attempting to minimize the physical demands of work, sport, and home.
