Making effective ergonomic changes
Eliminating awkward postures and repetitive motions involves trial and error. Expect to try out a few options before making final changes; the first solution may not be the best.
Begin by making a list of tasks with the highest risks. For each task, write down several potential improvements, then evaluate each by asking whether the change will:
- Reduce or eliminate the identified risk factors?
- Create new or different risk factors?
- Increase or decrease productivity and efficiency?
- Handle the required pace of work?
- Be affordable (is another option less expensive)?
- Take a long time to implement?
- Require substantial training (is a simpler option available)?
Finally, select a few options and set up a trial period to test new equipment or procedures. Allow time for workers to adjust, since a new tool or procedure can feel awkward at first, and workers may initially feel tired or sore. Providing an adjustment period may prevent you from rejecting an otherwise good improvement.
Evaluating changes
After the adjustment period, evaluate each change by asking whether it:
- Had enough time to work (are workers used to the changes)?
- Reduced or eliminated fatigue, discomfort, or injuries?
- Added any new factors or other problems?
- Matched the production requirements of the job?
- Was fully implemented in a reasonable amount of time?
- Was supported with training to make it effective?
If necessary, try a new option or begin the process again. When the situation improves and the risk is reduced as much as possible, evaluate the next job on your priority list.