Ergonomics is the scientific study of human work conditions, especially the interaction between man and machine. The term itself is taken from the Greek word “ergon” meaning work, and “nomos” meaning natural laws. The thought and goal behind it – a way to work smarter, not harder by designing tools, equipment, workstations and tasks to fit the job to the worker, not the worker to the job. It’s making work more comfortable, which improves both health and productivity of your employees.
Per OSHA, employers are responsible for providing a safe and healthy workplace for their employees. This definitely includes the prevention of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). These MSDs can occur in such situations as lifting heavy items, bending, reaching overhead, pushing and pulling heavy loads, working in awkward body postures and performing the same type of tasks repetitively. These disorders are the fastest-growing category of work-related illness – and account for up to 63% of the illnesses reported to OSHA. The majority of these are caused by ergonomic work-related injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, rotator cuff injuries, muscle strains, and low back injuries.
The implementation of ergonomics safety as part of an overall workplace safety program improves both the employees’ lives and the overall efficiency of your business, by helping to reduce costs, prevent other incidents and injuries, improves overall productivity – and in today’s great resignation, it shows your employees you are committed to their safety and health, which can foster employee engagement.
Workplace Safety & Health Company is here to help assist you with your ergonomic safety program. Take a look at our Ergonomic brochure. We specialize in evaluating employee workstations, assessing potential for injury, prioritizing stations based on risk, and making appropriate recommendations in order to reduce or eliminate work ergo-related risk as a whole. Contact us for more information – 317-253-9737 or www.workplacesafety.net.