Occupational Ergonomics: Emerging Approaches Toward Improved Worker Productivity and Injury Reduction

Abstract

Rising healthcare and workers’ compensation costs due to an increase in work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) have made Occupational Ergonomics the focus of most organizations nationwide. These organizations are required to ensure worker safety by reducing or eliminating musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) while complying with applicable occupational safety and health regulations. MSDs such as carpal tunnel syndrome often lead to intractable pain, repeated surgery, employee time off, low productivity and, ultimately, higher costs for the employer. Work activities such as; loading and unloading, lifting, reaching, and workplace design factors; such as wrong work surfaces height, uncomfortable chairs and tables, and poorly designed tools; all contribute to an increased risk of MSDs. A case study on ergonomic issues was conducted to evaluate the behaviors and ergonomic injury complaints of workers from various work activities. The goal of the study was to highlight other critical aspects of occupational ergonomics, less considered by employers and workers in the manufacturing industry that could result into WMSDs. The findings revealed that employers tend to ignore some critical aspects of the job that may have high impacts on worker safety and performance. Several recommendations for improvement were offered, including improvement in the contents of the workers’ training packages, job process redesign and analysis, and involvement of ergonomics experts in the training of new employees. Feedbacks confirmed an improvement in WMSDs experience by the workers after the suggested recommendations were implemented.