Ergonomics, Asbestos and Lead
How poor job design causes musculoskeletal disorders and how ergonomic improvements fix it, and how asbestos and lead harm health and are controlled through risk based work practices, engineering controls and hygiene.
Pages in this chapter (1 of 3)
10.1 Ergonomics Away from the Office
Doing the same task over and over, in awkward positions or with force, for long periods can damage muscles, ligaments, tendons, blood vessels and nerves. These injuries are musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). They affect the worker and also raise the cost of business through higher workers' compensation premiums, turnover, absence and lower efficiency.
Ergonomics, also called human engineering, is the practice of designing machines, products and places to suit people. It adapts the design of products and workplaces to people's size and shape, strength and limits, biological needs, ability to handle information and make decisions, and capacity to deal with psychological factors such as isolation and stress.
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) | An injury or disorder of the muscles, nerves, ligaments, tendons, cartilage, joints and spinal discs. Rotator cuff tendonitis, carpal tunnel syndrome and tension neck syndrome are examples. |
| Awkward posture | An unnatural position of the body, especially the joints, while doing a job. |
| Biomechanics | The study of the forces that muscles and gravity put on the skeleton. |
| Engineering controls | Physical changes to the job that reduce exposure to risk without relying on the worker to protect themselves. |
| Administrative controls | Procedures and policies that change how work is done, to reduce exposure to risk. |
Two branches
- Occupational biomechanics deals with the physical side of work: force and posture.
- Human factors deals with the psychological side: decision making and handling information.
Risk factors
- Physical factors: awkward postures, forceful exertion, repetitive tasks, contact stress, vibration.
- Environmental factors: heat or cold stress, noise and lighting. Poor lighting causes eye strain, eye focusing problems and fatigue.
Making improvements
| Type | What it does | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering controls | Redesign, rearrange, modify or replace tools, equipment, workstations or products | Lighter tools, a changed handle angle, adjustable chairs and work surfaces |
| Administrative controls | Change work practices and the way work is carried out | Job rotation, job enlargement, a slower work pace, short breaks, regular housekeeping and maintenance |
| PPE | Equipment the worker wears | Gloves, knee and elbow pads, footwear, eye protection |
A good ergonomics program also trains workers. It explains how to use new tools, machinery and equipment and the right work methods, with theory and practice.
A study aid, not published or endorsed by IOSH or OSHA. Laws and limits differ between countries.