Ergonomics: Is It the Right ‘Fit’?
October is Global Ergonomics Month
Global Ergonomics Month (GEM) is an international outreach campaign designed to promote the awareness and application of ergonomics to improve efficiency, productivity, health, safety and comfort not only in the workplace but in all aspects of daily living. Awareness of ergonomics has been increasing greatly over the past two decades and has been a topic of discussion for government departments, workers’ compensation boards and workplaces both private and public. What is Ergonomics?
Ergonomics (or human factors) is the science of understanding how humans interact with other elements of their environment and the impact it has on their well-being and overall performance. It is based on the concept that if the ‘fit’ between the user, their capabilities, their limitations, the equipment necessary to complete the task and the environment in which they must operate is optimized, it will maximize the potential for the best possible outcome.
Ergonomics draws on a number of other disciplines, including biomechanics, engineering, industrial and information design, kinesiology, physiology and psychology to assess the fit between a person and the technology and equipment they use. A proper ergonomic assessment of a workplace or workstation can improve the way in which a job gets done while putting less physical demands on the person completing the task. This not only improves productivity but reduces the risk of occupational injuries or accidents and ultimately has a positive impact on workers’ compensation claims and costs.
Benefits of an Ergonomic Assessment
The benefits of arranging an ergonomic assessment and applying the recommendations can be both preventative and proactive with regard to workplace injuries and accidents. It can help prevent occupational injuries such as repetitive strain injuries and other musculoskeletal disorders for the entire workforce and it can also be individualized for a specific worker or even a specific injury. A good ergonomic assessment can be instrumental in bringing an injured worker back to work sooner and safely, while reducing the risk of reinjury.
Ergonomic assessments should be seen as an ongoing process in the workplace and not a one time approach. The workplace is an ever changing environment as a result of, but not limited to, staff turnovers, technology advancements, operations reorganizations and economic factors. Establishing a periodic review of ergonomic designs and their applications ensures that the ‘fit’ between user and the task is current and appropriate. As a result, modifications and new recommendations can make sure that employees are continuing to interact with their work environment in the most ergonomically efficient way possible.
What is an Ergonomist?
An ergonomist is someone who applies ergonomic theory and uses ergonomic evaluation, design methods and principles to assess work environments and situations. They can provide in depth analysis of your workplace and provide practical recommendations to improve the ergonomic health of your organization. There are now courses and certifications available through post-secondary educational institutions, as the demand for ergonomic related services is increasing.
A good ergonomist can be a gold mine for any organization however,there are currently no laws limiting who can call themselves an ‘Ergonomist’. If you are thinking of hiring an ergonomist, you need to ask questions about their background, qualifications and training. You can check here for more in depth information on ergonomics or you can connect with us on our Facebook page, through our Twitter account, or our LinkedIn profile. You can reach us directly during business hours through our chat feature or by calling 1-844-377-9545. And you can always email us at [email protected] or at [email protected].
