Safety Update

Safety Update: The Need for Ergonomics Part 2

Two weeks ago we introduced the need for ergonomics and how to identify job demands, risk factors associated with those job demands and the use of control measures to ensure human limitations are not exceeded. Today we are going to identify common job demands in the office environment and focus on the preventative measures necessary for reducing the risk of musculoskeletal injury.

It seems odd that sitting in a chair or data entry over a long period of time can cause chronic musculoskeletal injury. However, excessive job demands such as improper posturing and repetition can cause permanent damage to our bodies and, in turn, life long pain and discomfort. In fact, ergonomic issues make up 30% of injuries in the workplace.

The most common risk factors (CRF) to be aware of and preventative measures (PM) to implement are:

CRF: Harmful positions where one’s posture is not neutral while sitting for long periods at a desk. (chair is not adjusted properly or employee is sitting improperly)
PM: Proper ergonomic chair to fit the size and shape of the employee must be provided. Work must always be directly in front of the employee to avoid a combination of postures. When keyboarding and mousing, arms and shoulders should be relaxed, elbows should be at 90 degrees and wrists must be straight. To keep wrists straight ensure keyboard is flat on the working surface and not angled.

CRF: Static stress in the upper back and shoulders from unsupported arms while keyboarding and mousing.
PM: Ergonomic chair must be fully adjustable including the seat, armrests (both width and length), backrest (tilt) and height of the chair to improve the posture of the employee. Armrests must be even with the keyboarding surface to provide support to the elbows. This will alleviate stress in the upper back and shoulders.

CRF: Repetitive stress to the hands and arms caused by several hours of keyboarding and mousing.
PM: Improve job design by varying tasks and take micro-pauses and breaks throughout the day. Engage in stretching activities and physical exercise to release muscle tension.

CRF: Excessive force exerted when lifting or moving heavy reference materials.
PM: Ensure large reference materials are stored at waist level for ease of use. Frequently used items must be in close proximity to the employee to limit them from reaching.

The Topic for November 29th: Hazard Identification and Assessment

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