Ergonomic Process Research Articles

Participatory Ergonomics Applied to Mammographers' Work

A participatory ergonomics process has been initiated, the aim of which is to work with mammographers to develop interventions that will improve their work conditions and reduce their occupational exposure to risk factors for musculoskeletal discomfort. Mammography is an understudied occupation, but worthy of attention, based on the number of workers and the elevated prevalence of musculoskeletal discomfort they experience. The presentation describes the research methodology and results from the first stages of the process.

Research on Digital Human Model System Used for Heavy Commercial Vehicle Ergonomic Design

A generic framework of digital human model system is studied by adopting the knowledge of anthropometry,multi-body system kinematics,computer graphics and ergonomics. The problems during the application of current digital human models in vehicle ergonomic design are analyzed,which are taken into account in subsequent research. Theories and corresponding techniques about how to use human data during design process to ensure enough accommodation level are studied. The content,method and performance evaluation of heavy commercial vehicle ergonomic design are studied and summarized. Based on the above mentioned theories and techniques,the system for heavy commercial vehicle ergonomic design (SHOVED),a digital human model system used for ergonomic design of heavy commercial vehicle,is developed,including functions of human modeling,vehicle modeling,scheme design,scheme analysis and optimization. By application of SHOVED,not only heavy commercial vehicle ergonomic design process can be done effectively and perfectly,but also the level of target people accommodation can be held accurately. The profile,constitution,key techniques and application principle of the generic digital human model framework and SHOVED are presented. Prospects for further study are given.

Ergonomic design for dental offices

The increasing complexity of the dental office environment influences productivity and workflow for dental clinicians. Advances in technology, and with it the range of products needed to provide services, have led to sprawl in operatory setups and the potential for awkward postures for dental clinicians during the delivery of oral health services. Although ergonomics often addresses the prevention of musculoskeletal disorders for specific populations of workers, concepts of workflow and productivity are integral to improved practice in work environments. This article provides suggestions for improving workflow and productivity for dental clinicians. The article applies ergonomic principles to dental practice issues such as equipment and supply management, office design, and workflow management. Implications for improved ergonomic processes and future research are explored.

Ergonomic aspects of the learning process

This paper is about ergonomic education process’ organization. Authors analyze main educational principles of ergonomic education process on the basis of individual educational environment creation in the electronic environment. There are given some recommendations in this paper. These recommendations are about ergonomic education material preparation, training process making more effective.

21<SUP>st</SUP> Century Ergonomics: A Lean Approach to Ergonomics Process Design and Management

21<SUP>st</SUP> Century Ergonomics: A Lean Approach to Ergonomics Process Design and Management

21st Century Ergonomics: A Lean Approach to Ergonomics Process Design and Management

Ergonomics strategies are becoming more common in the workplace for a variety of different reasons. These include productivity and efficiency gains, reducing the risk of work injuries, improving workstation design and layout, enhancing tool design or all of the above. One such strategy that generates significant results by addressing multiple reasons is the development and integration of an Ergonomics Process (EP) into the organization. The EP is a lean, pro-active and participative approach that is designed to prevent and manage work injuries quickly and effectively. The EP is based on the theory of Macro ergonomics, continuous improvement, participatory ergonomics and modern day lean system thinking. The EP described in this paper demonstrates a practical and efficient approach to the design of work systems that engages employees, management and administrators to impact the organization at the macro and micro ergonomics level, resulting in a powerful return on investment through increased productivity, employee work health satisfaction, and significant cost savings.

An economic evaluation of a participatory ergonomics process in an auto parts manufacturer

Problem We assess the costs and consequences of a participatory ergonomics process at a Canadian car parts manufacturer from the perspective of the firm. Method Regression modeling was used with interrupted time series data to assess the impact of the process on several health measures. Consequences were kept in natural units for cost-effectiveness analysis, and translated into monetary units for cost-benefit analysis. Results The duration of disability insurance claims and the number of denied workers' compensation claims was significantly reduced. The cost-effectiveness ratio is $12.06 per disability day averted. The net present value is $244,416 for a 23-month period with a benefit-to-cost ratio of 10.6, suggesting that the process was worth undertaking (monetary units in 2001 Canadian dollars). Discussion Our findings emphasize the importance of considering a range of outcomes when evaluating an occupational health and safety intervention. Impact on industry Participatory ergonomics process can be cost-effective for a firm.

Evaluation of a participatory ergonomic intervention process in kitchen work

We evaluated a participatory ergonomic intervention process applied in 59 municipal kitchens. In groups of three to five kitchens, the workers participated in eight workshops, and generated and evaluated solutions to optimize musculoskeletal load in their work. An ergonomist initiated and supported the process. By the end, 402 changes were implemented. Evaluative data were collected using research diaries, questionnaires, and focus group interviews. The intervention model proved feasible and the participatory approach was mostly experienced as motivating. The workers’ knowledge and awareness of ergonomics increased, which improved their ability to tackle ergonomic problems by themselves. The changes in ergonomics were perceived to decrease physical load and improve musculoskeletal health. As hindering factors for implementation, lack of time and motivation, and insufficient financial resources were mentioned. In addition, the workers expressed a wish for more support from the management, technical staff, and ergonomists.

Ergonomics Interventions at Badger Mining Corporation

In 2005, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and Badger Mining Corporation entered a partnership to implement ergonomics interventions, including a systematic process, to address exposure to risk factors that may result in musculoskeletal disorders or other types of injuries/ illnesses. As a result of this partnership, an ergonomics process was integrated with the existing safety and health programme to promote an on-going application of ergonomics principles, and over 40 task-specific interventions were implemented during the first year of the process. This paper presents details of the process integration, and several examples of task-specific interventions that reduced exposure to risk factors.

A corporate workplace model for ergonomic assessments and improvements

Several companies have developed their own company-specific models for ergonomic improvements. This study aims to describe and identify factors supporting and hindering the implementation and application of one such corporate model for ergonomic assessment and improvement. The model has been developed by Volvo Car Corporation and implemented at an assembly plant in Göteborg, Sweden. The model is unique as it is intended to be used by production engineers and safety representatives in cooperation. The process for assessment of musculoskeletal risks is standardised and participatory, which also supports identification of solutions. Interviews, questionnaires, observation and document studies were used to evaluate the use of the model. The model was found to improve participation and collaboration among stakeholders; provide a more effective ergonomic improvement process; visually represent the ergonomics situation in the company; and give legitimacy to and awareness of ergonomics. However, the model was found to be rather resource demanding and dependent on support from management and unions. In particular, a substantial training programme and regular use of the model are needed.

Implementation of an ergonomics process at a US surface coal mine

Since 1990 and the publication of the Ergonomics Program Management Guidelines for Meatpacking Plants by the US Occupational Safety and Health Administration, numerous reports of companies implementing ergonomics program have been published. However, despite these numerous reports, no examples of implementing an ergonomics program in the mining industry have been reported. In 2000, NIOSH initiated a long-term project to demonstrate the implementation of an ergonomics process designed to identify and reduce exposures to ergonomic risk factors found in mining. The mine selected for this project was the Jim Bridger Mine, a surface coal mine located 35 miles northeast of Rock Springs, Sweetwater County, WY. This paper discusses how a large, surface coal mine implemented an ergonomics program and the lessons learned while doing so. Relevance to industry In 1998, the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) submitted a formal request to NIOSH to investigate musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in the mining industry. In response to MSHA's request, NIOSH initiated a project at the Jim Bridger Mine that involved the implementation of an ergonomics process. This manuscript provides examples of successful interventions as well as recommendations and lessons learned from the implementation of an ergonomics process that will be beneficial to those initiating similar efforts.

Participatory ergonomic processes to reduce musculoskeletal disorders: Summary of a Québec experience

This article critically reviews 11 participatory ergonomic interventions carried out in Québec by the Occupational Health and Safety Research Institute (IRSST). In the introduction, the characteristics of the approach used are situated in relation to the literature on this subject. Based on the "Ergo team" formula, the approach aims to provide company personnel with the skills to analyze and correct hazardous workstations in relation to musculoskeletal disorders (MSD), using an analysis process that the researchers developed. Although isolated workstations were corrected, the process aims for more general impacts on the company. In the 11 interventions, 40 work situations were analyzed, and in 31 cases, changes were implemented to reduce MSD risks. The most common changes dealt with the tools/equipment (77.4% and physical layouts (84%); changes involving work methods (29% and work organization (12.9%) were less common. The difficulties encountered in the interventions are summarized, and the possible impacts of the interventions on the organization and psychosocial factors are discussed. The authors then address the limitations of the paper and the factors that should be considered in evaluating such a participatory process. The authors conclude that the participatory process was successful in implementing changes in companies and that other studies are necessary for a better understanding of the process and its impacts.

Use of a Computerized Decision Support System for Primary and Secondary Prevention of Work-Related MSD Disability

The present study evaluates the effectiveness of a decision support system used to evaluate and control physical job stresses and prevent re-injury of workers who have experienced or are concerned about work-related musculoskeletal disorders. The software program is a database that stores detailed job information such as standardized work data, videos, and upper-extremity physical stress ratings for over 400 jobs in the plant. Additionally, the database users were able to record comments about the jobs and related control issues. The researchers investigated the utility and effectiveness of the software by analyzing its use over a 20-month period. Of the 197 comments entered by the users, 25% pertained to primary prevention, 75% pertained to secondary prevention, and 94 comments (47.7%) described ergonomic interventions. Use of the software tool improved primary and secondary prevention by improving the quality and efficiency of the ergonomic job analysis process.

Field study of the effects of a self-implemented feedback program on housekeeping performance

Much of the evidence on the efficacy of occupational health and safety feedback programs has come from investigations in which the program was implemented by researchers without the active involvement of the workers. The effectiveness of feedback interventions in actual work situations thus requires testing. The housekeeping performance of three road maintenance areas and one garage was monitored over a 6–17-month period. Follow-up measurements were made after 3–4 years. A multiple baseline across-groups design was used to assess the impact of infrequent (at gradually increasing intervals), publicly posted housekeeping feedback on the housekeeping level. On-site personnel were included in the implementation process. The housekeeping performance improved in all units, and was maintained over a 3–4-year period in two out of four units after gradual termination of the feedback. The results indicate that good and partly permanent results can be achieved in conditions where the responsibility of the implementation is delegated mainly to the workplace. Relevance to industry The study describes an application of a participatory ergonomics process. The methodology worked well in a situation where the responsibility of the implementation was delegated mainly to the workplace. The feedback program could be easily incorporated within a line organization's routine, and therefore it seems suitable for everyday use.

Validation Engineering in Ergonomics: Theoretical Perspectives

A number of ergonomists have described or developed methodological models for the design, development, and evaluation of ergonomic products and processes. These models can be shown to be subsets of a classical methodological approach — well known in the hardware and systems professions, recently “discovered” by the software profession, and now beginning to be applied to ergonomics. This classical method — here called validation engineering (VE) — is a structured, systematic approach to business and technical risk reduction and user hazard mitigation. The VE lifecycle consists of a series of feedback and feedforward loops. The feedback loops consist of validation testing (implementation vs. requirements), verification testing (of requirements, specifications, and implementation), incremental hazard analyses, and post-deployment corrective and preventative actions. The feedforward loop consists of needs assessment, translation of needs to quantifiable requirements, translation of requirements to quantifiable engineering specifications, translation of specifications to implementation, and deployment of the product/process. Ergonomists can benefit both from using the VE approach and participating in efforts that use this approach

An ergonomics process for the care and use of research animals.

Personnel who work with laboratory animals incur potential occupational health risks that can lead to the development of musculoskeletal disorders. Demanding manual tasks may also result in increased errors, worker fatigue, poor human performance, and decreased productivity. Studies have shown that a comprehensive ergonomics program that utilizes a systematic risk management approach can reduce the likelihood of exposure to musculoskeletal disorder risk factors and remove barriers to human performance. Research has characterized the risk factors of musculoskeletal disorder exposure in terms of force, frequency, posture, and muscle exertion. Ergonomic risk factors for typical animal handling tasks and work areas are identified, and a method is suggested for prioritizing interventions using interrelated data indicators. An initial review of potential control measures is offered to improve the health, safety, and effectiveness of people involved in the care and use of research animals.

Corporate ergonomics programme at Ford Motor Company

The use of ergonomic principles in automobile assembly and manufacturing operations has become an important part of a comprehensive health and safety process as well as an integral part of the engineering systems. Ford Motor Company has developed an ergonomics process to manage issues related to injury and illness (e.g., musculoskeletal diseases) and to ensure the appropriate use of human resources on the plant floor. The ergonomics programme uses joint labour and management teams to identify and evaluate jobs and develop and implement solutions. This paper summarises the efforts of the Ford Motor Company in implementing and maintaining the programme. Key strategies are outlined that provide important links to internal organisational units that are critical to fully utilise the ergonomics process. In addition, the paper outlines differences between proactive and reactive efforts and shows the importance of using the information generated by the initiatives for process improvement.

Method for the analysis of posture and interface pressure of car drivers

Biomechanical study of car driver posture is one of the most referenced aspects for the ergonomic design process of the whole vehicle. The aim of this work is to present a multi-factor method for the analysis of sitting posture and the resulting interactions of the car driver body with the cushion and the backrest. The proposed method, based on the combined use of an optoelectronic system for motion capture and suitable matrices of pressure sensors, has allowed the measurement of a large set of car driver posture parameters and the identification of specific sitting strategies characterising the driving posture, despite the different behaviours of the analysed subjects.

Participatory Ergonomics Training in the Manufacturing Sector and Ergonomic Analysis Tools

This article discusses the importance of job analysis tools for training in the context of participatory ergonomic processes. It explains the major principles and challenges in the design of these tools for short-cycle repetitive tasks and for long-cycle varied tasks. The intervention framework is described and the proposed tools are presented and related to the literature. The participants’ difficulties with the tools developed in both contexts studied are summarized. The discussion suggests that these difficulties are partly related to the company context and raises questions about the data relevant for the evaluation of solutions in the case of non-repetitive tasks.

The Ergonomics Process in a Large Industry: A Case Study

This study reviewed the ergonomics process at a large automotive manufacturing company. Since program inception in 1989, the Company and the UAW have been industry leaders in developing a participatory ergonomics program at the plant level. Every large US facility has a locally controlled and operated cross-functional ergonomics team. in the years following implementation (1997–2001), extensive program development and team training have been well established. During program maturation, the organization as a whole has seen significant reductions in lost time case rate for cases of ergonomic interest (14.6%/year) and has had a strong decreasing trend for severity rate for cases of ergonomic interest (39.5 days/year). The local level teams are evaluated on their adherence to the ergonomic program with the use of process metrics including internal audits, OSHA compliance, and intervention activity level. The jointly designed process was developed with the intent of reducing injury rates (outcome metrics). This paper will evaluate the correlation between the ergonomics program outcome metrics and the process metrics.