What is Ergonomics All About? Does it Really Matter?

Ergonomics is the application of design to reduce fatigue and discomfort. It can be as simple as adding a keyboard shelf to a desk in the office for a comfortable typing height or installing a lift assist device in the shop. In offices everywhere, the adjustable height, lumbar support chair has replaced the old straight-back roller chair. This is a product of function as much as fashion. For an employer, ergonomics can mean employees who are able to work longer and more productively, who suffer fewer workplace injuries and who take fewer sick days.

In 2001, the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) developed a complex set of standards governing ergonomics in the workplace. Employers were required to implement the standards by Jan. 16, 2002. Amid controversy surrounding the resolution, not the least of which was whether OSHA had the authority to impose some of the sanctions for non-compliance as proposed, President Bush signed a joint resolution of Congress, which had the effect of repealing it. However, Bush pledged to find a solution. A U.S. Department of Labor announcement regarding ergonomics was expected in September 2001, but that announcement only postponed decisions regarding plan implementation. OSHA developed ergonomic rules for the construction industry, but withdrew them in August 2001. However, OSHA will identify ergonomic issues during an inspection.

Although ergonomic rule implementation has been delayed, the science and economics behind the rules is sound and can benefit employers who voluntarily adopt some of the guidelines. OSHA can be a resource to employers as it continues to identify ergonomic hazards and in April 2002 appointed regional ergonomic coordinators to its regional offices. These officers can assist in training and compliance issues and answer any questions regarding ergonomic practices.

Oregon's state OSHA (Or-OSHA) has its own guidelines and has considered a similar regulatory scheme. Regulations aside, some of the fundamental ideas behind proposed regulatory schemes are based in sound principle, and the projected savings to employers make them worth considering. In Oregon, the top five occupations for ergonomic risk are construction laborer, carpenter, electrician, roofer, and plumber/pipe fitter. The most injured part of the body is the back, followed by the trunk, knees, fingers and wrists. In calendar year 1999, the average work related injury resulted in 73 days of time loss and a total average cost of $13,562 per claim.

In the U.S. alone, there are 1.8 million work-related musculoskeletal disorders reported per year, including carpel tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, and back injuries. Of these, approximately 600,000 result in time loss. This does not address injuries from slips and falls, vehicle, or other accidents. OSHA has identified ergonomic risks such as performing work in a stooped posture where there is considerable stress on the back or repeated lifting and torso twisting as might be faced by an airline terminal agent or construction worker. Ergonomics can help reduce the severity of these disorders and the risk factors associated with them.

You may already have some ergonomics policies in place. Lifting guidelines that require two employees to lift heavy or awkward materials, or require employees to wear a brace and lift with their legs are policies that use applied science to reduce the risk of injury. Some employers even have stretching techniques they teach their employees and encourage them to use. Training employees to use good ergonomic practices and to recognize potential problems, and using that training on site, are the keys to implementing ergonomics.

In evaluating musculoskeletal risk in any given job's duties, employers should consider the following: repetition (such as using a keyboard or mouse); force (such as lifting more than 75 pounds or pushing more than 20 pounds); and vibration (such as the use of jack hammers, jig saws or other tools). Also, consider the work environment. Does it require awkward body positions? Are employees in one position for long periods of time? Some adjustments can be easily made. A scissors lift can adjust the height of a workstation between shifts. Awkward maneuvering can be corrected by angling parts bins. Many changes can be made at little or no cost to the employer, while the effects can save thousands of dollars in lost time and productivity.

This article is intended to inform the reader of general legal principles applicable to the subject area. It is not intended to provide legal advice regarding specific problems or circumstances. Readers should consult with competent counsel with regard to specific situations.

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