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 FactorsIn 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. However, Ergonomics focuses on how work

affects workers, while Human Factors emphasizes designs

that reduce the potential for human error.

Why Ergonomics?Legislation BC, Saskatchewan US OSHA (2000) Australia (89), European Community

(93), California (97), Sweden (98) Ontario ? – General duty clause

25. 2(h) take every precaution reasonable in the circumstances for the protection of a worker;

Canada (Feds) ????

WMSD History(US data)

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

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

1981 84 87 90 93 96 99

Musculoskeletal Injuries

Work-related MusculoSkeletal DDisorders - WMSD Repetitive Strain Injuries - RSI Repetitive Motion Injuries - RMI Cumulative Trauma Disorders - CTD Occupational Overuse Syndrome -

OOS WRULD

Low Back Pain

Ergonomic Hazards

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

Ergonomic Hazards

Awkward working postures Forceful movementsRepetitive movementsPace of workTemperature extremesVibration

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