ERGONOMIC

What Is Ergonomics ?
Ergonomics (or human factors) is the
scientific discipline concerned with the
understanding of interactions among
humans and other elements of a
system, and the profession that applies
theory, principles, data and methods to
design in order to optimize human wellbeing and overall system performance.

The Purpose Of
Ergonomics
To increase the efficiency of employees
To prevent unnecessary and excessive difficulties
To prevent damage to human beings
To prevent unnecessary activities

Types Of Ergonomics
Physical
Ergonomics
Physical ergonomics is
concerned with human
anatomical,
physiological and
biomechanical
characteristics as they
relate to physical activity

 Cognitive
Ergonomic
Cognitive ergonomics is
concerned with mental
processes, such as
perception, memory,
reasoning, and motor
response, as they affect
interactions among
humans and other
elements of a system.

 Organizational
Ergonomics
Organizational
ergonomics is concerned
with the optimization of
sociotechnical systems,
including their
organizational
structures, policies, and
processes.

Ergonomics Design
Expectations
Ease of use
Convenience of user
Comfortable
Health and security
Performans increase

Benefits of Ergonomics
Decreased injury risk
Increased productivity
Decreased mistakes/rework
Increased efficiency
Decreased lost work days
Decreased turnover
Improved morale

MSDs (Musculoskeletal Disorders)

MSDs are injuries or
pain in the bodys
joints, ligaments,
muscles, nerves, and
structures that supports
limbs, neck and back.
MSDs are degenerative
diseases and
inflammatory
conditions that causes
pain and impair normal
activities.

Common Causes of MSDs

Repetitive and/or
prolonged activities
Awkward
postures/positions for
an extended time
Static postures
Vibration
High/low Temperatures
for an extended time
Forceful exertions

Signs Of MSD

Decreased range of motion

Loss of function
Deformity
Cramping
Loss of color
Decreased grip strength
Loss of balance
Swelling
Redness

Symptoms Of MSD

Muscle fatigue or pain

Aching
Burning
Numbness
Stiffness
Tingling

Types of Injuries
Repetitive motion
injury
Cumulative trauma
disorder
Musculoskeletal
disorder

Muscle pain

Joint pain

Swelling

Numbness

Restricted motion

Repetitive stress injury

What To Do..?
Prevent, Prevent, Prevent
a) Warm up & stretch before activities that are
repetitive, static or prolonged
b) Take frequent breaks from ANY sustained
posture every 20-30 minutes
c) Respect pain- positions or stop painful activity
d) Recognize early signs of inflammatory process
e) Be aware of workstation environment.

Control Methods
Install engineering controls including workstation
layout and proper tools
Institute work practice controls including neutral
postures for performing tasks
Administrative controls including rescheduling to
reduce frequency or duration of exposure to MSDs
Personal protective equipment (PPE) to provide a
protective barrier between worker and MSD

Summary

Minimize ergonomic risk factors in your area

Stretch throughout the shift especially before and after

activities that require awkward positions or lifting

Pay attention to your body and know your physical

limitations

Report ergonomics issues through appropriate channels.

Ergonomic injuries are preventable, and you own your

own safety