Ergonomics is the scientific study of human work including systems design, tool design and how humans interact with work spaces and machines.
Scientific evidence shows that effective ergonomic interventions:
- lower the physical demands of work tasks
- lower the incidence and severity of musculoskeletal injuries
- reduce injury related costs making ergonomic interventions a useful tool for improving a company’s productivity, product quality, and overall business competitiveness
Ergonomic adjustments are made to improve the fit between the physical nature of work tasks and the capabilities of your workers, or between the office work station and the office worker.
Goals include:
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assisting employees to perform their jobs
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improving level of comfort amongst employees while working
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reducing risks that employees are exposed to
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reducing lost time injuries
The impact of an ergonomics program includes:
- increased productivity
- reduced absenteeism
- reduced injuries and illnesses
- an improved bottom line
Ergonomic interventions vary, but generally fall into two categories: administrative and engineering. Administrative interventions include such things as organization of work, job rotation, adjustment of work rate and/or scheduling. Engineering changes include modification to the work set up, process, or tools.