Ergonomics in an Industrial Setting Andrew Drewczynski Canadian

Ergonomics in an Industrial Setting Andrew Drewczynski Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety www. ccohs. ca

What is Ergonomics? Ergonomics is the discipline that matches the job to the worker and product to the user.

Ergonomics vs Human Factors In the occupational field, Ergonomics and Human Factors are terms used interchangeably. Both describe the interaction between the operator and the job demands, and aim to minimize hazards in the workplace. n n However, Ergonomics focuses on how work affects workers, while Human Factors emphasizes designs that reduce the potential for human error.

Why Ergonomics? Legislation n n BC, Saskatchewan US OSHA (2000) Australia (89), European Community (93), California (97), Sweden (98) Ontario ? – General duty clause w 25. 2(h) take every precaution reasonable in the circumstances for the protection of a worker; n Canada (Feds) ? ?

WMSD History (US data)

WMSD as % of all Work. Related Injuries (Canadian data)

Musculoskeletal Injuries Work-related Musculo. Skeletal Disorders - WMSD n n n Repetitive Strain Injuries - RSI Repetitive Motion Injuries - RMI Cumulative Trauma Disorders - CTD Occupational Overuse Syndrome - OOS WRULD Low Back Pain

Ergonomic Hazards are workplace conditions that pose the risk of injury to the musculoskeletal system of the worker.

Ergonomic Hazards Awkward working postures Forceful movements Repetitive movements Pace of work Temperature extremes Vibration

Awkward Postures

Awkward Postures

Awkward Postures

Awkward Postures - Improvements

Awkward postures - Improvements

Airport “A” - Workstation

Airport “A” - Sitting

Airport “A” – Checking - in

Airport “B” - Workstation

Airport “B” – Checking in

Airport “C” - Workstation

Airport “C” – Checking-in