Publisher's Synopsis
Research has shown that an ergonomics process that identifies risk factors, devises solutions to reduce musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), and evaluates the effectiveness of the solutions can lower worker exposure to risk factors and MSDs and improve productivity. A review of the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) injury/illness database indicated that 46% of illnesses in 2004 were associated with repetitive trauma and 35% of nonfatal lost days involved material handling during 2001- 2004. Even though these statistics show that MSDs significantly contribute to occupational illnesses and injuries in the U.S. mining industry, few mining companies have implemented an ergonomics process. Despite the many unique challenges in the mining environment, three mining companies partnered with the MSD Prevention Team at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health's Pittsburgh Research Laboratory to demonstrate that an ergonomics process could be systematically implemented and effectively integrated with existing safety and health programs. Because these three mining companies were very different in organization, culture, and size, the ergonomics processes had to be modified to meet the needs of each company. A description of how these three companies applied ergonomics and the tools and training used to implement their processes is given. Prior to discussing the case studies, general information on the elements of an ergonomics process is provided. Ergonomics is the scientific discipline concerned with the understanding of interactions among people and other elements of a system to optimize their well-being and overall system performance [IEA 2008]. This is generally accomplished by applying ergonomic principles to the design and evaluation of manual tasks, jobs, products, environments, and systems, ensuring that they meet the needs, capabilities, and limitations of people. When integrated with safety and health programs, ergonomics can be viewed as a third leg of a three-pronged risk management approach to reduce musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) rates. Safety focuses on hazards that may result in traumatic injuries, industrial hygiene concentrates on hazards that may cause occupational disease, and ergonomics addresses risk factors that may result in MSDs and other conditions, such as vibration-related illnesses. By applying ergonomic principles to the workplace with a systematic process, risk factor exposures are reduced or eliminated. Employees can then work within their abilities and are more efficient at performing and completing tasks. The benefits of applying ergonomic principles are not only reduced MSD rates, but also improved productivity and quality of life for workers. The purpose of this document is to provide information on implementing a successful ergonomics process that is part of the organizational culture.
