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ERGONOMICS AS A CONCEPT

The term ergonomics was coined from the Greek words ergon (meaning "work") and
nomos (meaning "rules).So the literal meaning is "the rules of work," Ergonomics is the
science of fitting the work-place conditions and job demands to the capabilities of the
working population. The goal of ergonomics is to make the work place more comfortable
and to improve both health and productivity. To meet these goals, the capabilities and
limita
limitatio
tions
ns of worker
workerss and their
their tools,
tools, equipme
equipment nt and furnit
furniture
ure are consid
considere
ered
d in
conjunct
conjunction
ion with
with how they
they relate
relate to partic
particula
ularr tasks.
tasks. Mo
Most
st peopl
peoplee have
have hear
heard
d of 
ergonomics and think it is something to do with seating or with the design of car controls
and instruments. It is...but it is much more! Ergonomics is the application of scientific
information concerning humans to the design of objects, systems and environment for 
human use. Ergonomics comes into everything which involves people. Work systems,
sports and leisure, health and safety should all embody ergonomics principles if well
designed.

DEFINITION

According to International Labour Organization, ergonomics is the application of the

human biological sciences in conjunction with engineering sciences to the worker and his
working environment, so as to obtain maximum satisfaction for the worker and at the
same time enhance productivity.

HISTORY

Later
Later in the 19th
19th century
century,, Frank
Frank and Lillia
Lillian
n Gilber
Gilbertt expande
expanded d Taylor
Taylor's
's methods
methods of 
“SCIEN
“SCIENTIF
TIFIC
IC MANAGE
MANAGEMEN MENT” T” in the early
early 1900s
1900s to develo
developp "Time
"Time and Motion
Motion
Studies". They aimed to improve efficiency by eliminating unnecessary steps and actions.
By applying
applying this approach, the Gilbert’s
Gilbert’s reduced the number of motions in bricklaying
bricklaying
from 18 to 4.5, allowing
allowing bricklayers to increase
increase their productivity from 120 to to 350 bricks
 per hour.
In the decades since the war, ergonomics has continued to flourish and diversify. The
Space Age created new human factors issues such as weightlessness and extreme G-
forces. How far could environments in space be tolerated, and what effects would they
have on the mind and body? The dawn of the Information Age has resulted in the new
ergonomics
ergonomics field
field of human-comput
human-computer er interactio
interactionn (HCI).
(HCI). Likewise,
Likewise, the growing
growing demand
for
for and
and comp
competetit
itio
ion
n amon
among g cons
consum
umerer goo
goods
ds and elect
electro
roni
nics
cs has
has resu
result
lted
ed in more
more
companies including human factors in product design.
 ORIGIN OF ERGONOMICS

Ergonomics is a relatively new branch of science which celebrated its 50th anniversary in
1999, but relies on research carried out in many other older, established scientific areas,
such as engineering, physiology and psychology.

It originated in World War 2, when scientists designed advanced new and potentially
improved systems without fully considering the people who would b e using them. It
gradually became clear that systems and products would have to be designed to take
account of many human and environmental factors if they are to be used safely and
effectively. This awareness of people’s requirements resulted in the discipline of 
ergonomics.

USING ERGONOMICS

How do we use ergonomics? Ergonomics incorporates elements from many subjects

including anatomy, physiology, psychology and design. Agronomists apply their diverse
knowledge
knowledge to ensure that products and environment
environmentss are comfortable,
comfortable, safe and efficient
efficient
for people to use.
Ergonomics can be used in every possible sphere of our lives. But we have tried to focus
on some of the important aspects, where ergonomics should not be ignored.

For that purpose we have divided the usability of ergonomics into the following sections:

  Ergonomics and the Computer User 

Why is it Important?

The personal computer is rapidly becoming a common household item and is now a
necessary tool for all small businesses. There is a growing segment of the population that
uses the computer exclusively
exclusively for its vocation and it is in this group that we have begun
to see the physical effects of spending long hours day after day at the computer. With
improvements in technology the computer users are positioned to perform more and more
functions without leaving their workstation.

Here are some of the ergonomic ways to ensure that the using of the computer doesn’t
 prove fatal to your health.

 Machine Set-up

 Visibility:- You must be able to see what you are doing easily to avoid eye
strain and neck pain. Have adequate amounts of light. Florescent lights are not very
good, natural (sun) light is best. Reduce glare as much as possible, not only on your 
screen but also on the rest of your work areas including the keyboard. Hoods, drapes,
glare screens and changing the lights can do wonders. Rearrange things until you can
see well and it feels comfortable for you.
  Chairs :- As with visibility factors, experiment with chair height and/or tilt.
Try different chairs. Keep trying until you get it the way your body likes.

 Keyboards:- Be sure to get the height right to prevent too much bend at the wrist
and allow the forearm to have some support. The arms should hang loose to prevent the
shoulder muscles from cramping. Many keyboards can tilt; unfortunately, most of them
tilt the wrong way.

 Mouse:- The continual clicking and small, precise motions involved in mouse use
are a repetitive action that can be a health hazard. A few basic rules can help make
handling this convenient input devise safer and more comfortable:
1.) Hold the mouse loosely. "White knuckling" the mouse creates too much tension.
Use a light touch when you click.
2.) Use you whole arm and shoulder to move the mouse, not just your wrist. Don't rest
your forearm on the desk while you move the mouse.
4.) Keep your wrist relaxed and neutral, not bent. The click button should be about the
same height as your keyboard.

 Desks: Make enough space so that you have room to work, especially if your 
 pushing your mouse around. Use a paper holder to keep letters or books semi-vertical
and at eye level. Your work space should be set up so that you need not twist your 
neck.

HUMAN SET-UP

 Posture:-  No one posture is perfect. You do not have to be "military" but
gettin
getting
g comfor
comfortab
table
le is essent
essential
ial.. The most
most import
important
ant rule
rule is to avoid
avoid prolon
prolonged
ged
 positions. Shake your hands and shoulders now and then. Keep lose.

 Eyes:- After
After good lighting
lighting and avoidin
avoiding
g glare,
glare, the most
most import
important
ant eye
consideration is to look away from the screen occasionally. It really helps. Also, don't
forget to blink. Blinking moistens the eyes to prevent burning from dryness.

 Warm up:- Just as an athlete prepares for the game by stretching and loosening
the joints and muscles to prevent injury and enhance performance, you too should
 prepare for a marathon session surfing the Net. Prevention
P revention is better than repair.

  Ergonomics and driving 

Why is it important?

As our reliance on the automobile increases due to long distance job commutes driving
has become a significant part of our daily routine. By spending more and more time in
cars our driving can now be considered a major source of physical and psychological
stress in day-to-day living.
Stressors of Driving

The challenge of the manufacturer is to strike a balance between safety and comfort.
With the prime ergonomic elements being posture,
p osture, force and repetition it is posture that is
most important to the driver. Any deficiencies in postural design o f the car seat contribute
to tens
tensio
ion
n and
and fati
fatigu
guee on the
the part
part of the
the driv
driver
er and
and subs
subseq
eque
uent
ntly
ly detr
detrac
actt from
from
  performanc
performance.
e. There are portable
portable support
support systems/c
systems/commute
ommuterr supports
supports designed
designed to be
added to the existing car seating. These compensate for ineffective car seat design.

Neck and Shoulder Pain

With long distance driving aches and pains in the legs, low back, mid, upper back and
neck are experienced. With our hands on the steering wheel and the forward posture of 
the shoulders there is added stress on the shoulders and upper back.

To prevent rounding of the shoulders the driver must have easy access to the steering
wheel without having to fully extend the arms and at the same time comfortably reach the
foot pedals without having to stretch the legs. Compact vehicles are notorious for poorly
accommodating tall individuals. If the ceiling is too low for an erect seated position the
driver is forced to crunch down in the seat with a forward head posture. Short drivers
must be able to slide the seat forward
forward to the extent that they do not have to lean forward
forward
and place the head in a forward position.

Low Back Pain

Several studies have shown a relationship between driving and low back pain. Risks of 
 both low back and neck pain tend to increase as daily driving time increases

For people with a history of low back problems it is recommended that they choose a
vehicle
vehicle with a higher curb height so they are not traumatized
traumatized when getting
getting in and out of 
the car. The driver should enter the car first by sitting down and then swinging the legs
under the wheel. Features that are included in most modern vehicles include automatic
transmissions and power steering. These features lessen any twisting of the spine and
strain to the low back.

 Ergonomics at home

Why is it important?

The opportunity we have in our home that we do not always have in our work area is the
ability to create a user-friendly environment. As each room in the house serves a specific
function we need to come up with ideas on how we can set up the room to best suit our 
needs so there is more efficiency and less stress in the activities of the house.

The Living Room

The next room we enter is the living room. This is the room in which we usually do most
of our relaxing in the form of reading, socializing or watching TV. These activities
require ergonomically designed couches, recliners and chairs. Watching television is best
done from an easy chair or recliner. Directional light should be used while reading that
will only illuminate a specific target area.

The Kitchen

The kitchen is where we store, cook and prepare food. It is most practical to use a
refrigerator that has a freezer on the bottom with the most commonly used foods on the
top or shelf that has the easiest access. Most people have refrigerators that are set up in
such a way that they are forced to bend over at the waist to access the much frequently
used foods. The most commonly used utensils should be within easy reach. Special
kitchen
kitchen tool
tool design
designss make
make chores
chores easier
easier as in opening
opening jars.
jars. Profes
Professio
sional
nal cooks
cooks like
like
 professional wood workers know the importance of using only sharp knives. When used
skillfully, it is more dangerous to use a dull knife than a sharp one. Using a utensil that is
not suited for the task (improvising) is a sure invitation to an accident.

The bathroom

This is where most accidents in the house occur, usually from slipping. Bath and floor 
mats that provide good traction are essential for the purpose of preventing slips and falls.
Hand bars are also crucial to prevent falls. Common flaws in bathroom design are low
 bathroom sinks and showerheads. These will tend precipitate low back and neck injuries
respectively. All faucets in the house should be fitted with a user-friendly variety in
which low force is necessary to turn the water on and off. Turning knobs that are poorly
designed can put unnatural
u nnatural stress on the wrists thereby causing injury to wrist tendons.

• Ergonomics and kids

Why is it important?

If we provide for their ergonomic needs we can increase children’s involvement in their 
environment and thereby cultivate mastery, productivity and independ ence.

A Place for Toys

Children work at play and toys are their tools. They should have their toys and things
stored in such a way that they are readily accessible. If their toys are organized in open
shelves
shelves or in transparent
transparent bins children
children are visually
visually reminded
reminded of what they have and as a
result
result will stay involved and interact
interact more with their physical surroundings
surroundings The area of 
 play is close to the ground and it should be safe from hazards and easy to clean. Since
young children spend most of their time close to the ground they should have their own
throw rug to protect the knees and provide a cushion from falls.

Kids and Backpacks

 Research is significant in view of the fact that school children are being burdened with
heavier
heavier backpacks
backpacks than ever before.
before. Health
Health care professionals
professionals are reporting
reporting increases in
visits by children for various musculoskeletal complaints such as neck, back and shoulder 
 pain, fatigue, muscle pain and numbness. Bags that are carried in one hand also put an
uneven burden on the body. The pack should rest against the body naturally and the
straps should be padded and as wide as possible.

Furniture for Children

Chairs and tables must be proportionate to their size and the feet should be firmly planted
on the ground or at least on a footrest. It is most practical to have furniture that can grow
with
with the child.
child. These
These includ
includee tables
tables that have
have adjust
adjustabl
ablee legs
legs and chairs
chairs that have
have
adjustable seats and footrest height.

Ergonomics and the office

Why is it important?

By incorporating ergonomic principles into the functional design of a contemporary

office, the workers become more productive and efficient. Each worker's tasks center 
arou
around
nd a work
workst
stat
atio
ion
n and
and the
the conf
config
igur
urat
atio
ion
n of the
the work
workst
stat
atio
ion
n depe
depends
nds on the
the
 performance duties of each worker.

Workstation

The goal for each worker shouldshould be to maxim

maximize
ize product
productivi
ivity
ty and effici
efficiency
ency with
minimal stress and injury. In a modern day office the centre of the worker's activity
revolves around a computer, desk and chair. The application of ergonomics is most
important to the activities that make up the bulk of the workers time.

To prevent the worker from wasting energy by moving in and out of a chair, space must
 be used efficiently. The working area can be divided into zones. Zone 1 is the area
containing
containing materials most frequently
frequently accessed and therefore
therefore within a 12-inch
12-inch reach.
reach.
Those materials less frequently used are in zone 2 or within a 20-inch reach. Those
materials that are seldom used are in Zone 3 or greater than 20 inches away from the
worker
worker.. The idea is to use shelvi
shelving
ng and cubicles
cubicles that are compact
compactly
ly designed
designed to
organized things into respective zones. Sometimes it is necessary to organize shelving
into portable units such as carts with casters. For ease of operation these casters should
have low rolling resistance
resistance and a centralized
centralized locking system.
system. Unnecessary
Unnecessary motions
motions
interrupt a smooth workflow and expend wasted energy. They also cause cumulative
trauma
trauma to the back, neck and shoulders.
shoulders. Stretches
Stretches and exercises
exercises can be performed
performed at the
workstation without disrupting the work routine.

By taking a proactive role in initiating ergonomic programs the business bottom line is
enhanced through worker productivity and decreased healthcare costs.
Ergonomics and factory/assembly work 

Factory and assembly line type work is a carryover from the industrial revolution and has
evolved over the years as a result of our increasing knowledge of ergonomics. The
requirements of the work are extremely varied and the resulting consequences on human
health can range from repetitive or cumulative trauma disorders to death. For this reason
it is essential for companies to establish ergonomic programs for ensuring the safety,
efficiency, and productivity of various jobs.

It is a natural goal of these companies to minimize job related health costs and personnel
turnover and to maximize productivity by workers. To this end it is important for 
companies to develop an overall ergonomic strategy as an integral part of their business
strategy. Specifically these companies must come to understand how human performance
issues
issues contri
contribut
butee to product
production
ion bottle
bottlenec
necks,
ks, proble
problems
ms in qualit
quality
y contro
control,
l, injury
injury and
turnove
turnoverr rates
rates and how theythey can find
find soluti
solutions
ons through
through product
production
ion layout
layout and tool
tool
design.

Work Surfaces

A worker is certain to get neck, upper back and shoulder pain if neck flexion exceeds 20
degrees for prolonged periods of time. The optimal viewing range is between horizontal
and 45 degrees. Work surfaces should be round and padded where elbows, forearms and
wrists can be rested. Certain work stations aids include ladders, stools and carts with
casters ergonomically designed with low rolling resistance which have shock absorbing
and noise free characteristics. They should have central locking systems and be equipped
with proper push/pull assists.

Ergonomics and Automotive Mechanics

Why is it Important?

The work of auto mechanics is particularly awkward and demanding and frequently
results
results in abuse to the wrists,
wrists, elbows, and spine in general. The worker’s
worker’s body is forced
forced
to conform to the various engine configurations and auto design. Automobiles have
evolved over the last few years toward smaller and more compact machines and as a
result the mechanics tools have had to undergo a refinement in ergonomic design to
function in very confined space.

Working under the Hood

In applying ergonomics to work we normally think of “fitting the task to the human” but
unfortunately in mechanic work we tend to “fit the human to the task.” The result is
cumulative trauma from long hours of awkward static postures. The mechanic is forced to
lean forward while working under the hood of the vehicle and this leads to low back 
strain.

One way to work on engine parts under the hood that are particularly difficult to reach is
 by utilizing a special overhead creeper which consists of a padded chest board that is
supported on top of a ladder-like apparatus.

The Mechanic Workstation

The mechanic’s job is facilitated by setting up the workstation in a way that tools can be
accessed
accessed quickly and without an unnecessary
unnecessary expenditure
expenditure of energy. To minimize
minimize the
low back strain that results from manual lifting and c arrying heavy engine parts and tools,
sturdy utility carts with casters should be used as a means of transport. The casters should
have low rolling
rolling resistance
resistance with shock dampening
dampening and noise free characteris
characteristics
tics.. Tool
carts with trays should be organized into a system which arranges the most frequently
used tools within easy reach. The tools should be easily modified and portable depending
on the nature of the job at hand.

FACTORS OF CONSIDERATION

To produce a workplace that will minimum amount of strain to the worker, ergonomics
takes into account the following three factors

 Anthropometric data
Anthropometry is the study of measurement of physical features of human beings. It
studies the strength of various muscles and ranges o f body movement.
The data on human body dimensions are of two types
- Stru
Struct
ctur
ural
al dim
dimens
ensions
ions
These are body dimensions of a person in a static condition. There are two static
 positions, namely sitting and standing.
- Func
Functtional
onal dime
dimens
nsiions
ons
These are the body dimensions
dimensions of a person in motion.
motion. This is more important
important than
the structural dimensions as most of the working conditions are dynamic in nature.

 Human activity analysis

Movements
Human strength and endurance
Speed and accuracy

 Motion economy
What Is Motion Economy?

Motion
Motion econom
economy y helps
helps achiev
achievee product
productivi
ivity
ty and reduce
reduce Cumula
Cumulativ
tivee Trauma
Trauma at the
workstation
workstation or sub-micro
sub-micro level. The Principles of Motion
Motion Economy
Economy eliminate
eliminate wasted
motion, ease operator tasks, reduce fatigue and minimize cumulative trauma such as
Carpal Tunnel and tendonitis.
PRINCIPLES OF MOTION ECONOMY

Summarized from Ralph M. Barnes

1.0 Use of Human Body • Provide for adeq dequate visual
• The two hands should begin end perception . Good illumina
illuminatio
tionn is
their motions at the same time. the first requirement.
• The two hands should not be idle • Arra
Arrangngee the height of the
at th
thee sasame
me ti me except during
time workpl
workplace
ace and chair
chair for altern
alternate
ate
rest periods. sitting and standing, when
 possible.
• Moti
Mo tion
onss of thethe arms should
should be
made in opposite and symmetrical • Provid
Providee a chair of the type and
dire
direct
ctio
ions
ns and
and shou
should
ld be mademade height to permit good posture.
simultaneously 3.0 Design of Tools and Equipment
• Hand motions should be confined • Relieve hands of work that can be
to the
the lowest classific ation with
classification done more advantageously by a jig,
which it is possible to perform the fixture, or a foot-operated
work satisfactorily device.
• Momentum should be employed to • Combine tools whenever possible.
assist the worker whenever 
• Pre-position tools and materials.
 possible, and it should be reduced
to a minimum if it must be • Where each finger performs some
overcome by muscular effort. spec
specif
ific
ic move
moveme ment
nt,, such
such as in
typew
typewririti
ting,
ng, the
the load
load shoul
shouldd be
• Smooth
Smo oth cont
continuo
inuous
us moti ons of 
motions
distributed in accordance with the
the hands are preferable to zigzag
inherent capacities of the
motion
motionss or straig
straight-
ht-li
line
ne motion
motionss
fingers.
involving sudden and sharp
changes in direction. • Handles (i.e(i.e.. cran
cranksks and
and larg
largee
scre
screwd
wdririve
vers
rs)) shoul
should d permi
permitt as
• Ballist
Bal listic
ic mov
moveme nts are faster
ements faster,,
much of the surface of the hand to
easi
easier
er,, and
and more
more accu
accurarate
te than
than
come in contact with the handle as
restricted (fixation) or "controlled"
possible, especially when
movements.
considerable force is necessary.
• Rhythm assists smooth and
• For  light assembly, a screwdriver 
automa
automatic tic perfor
performan
mance.
ce. Arrang
Arrangee
handl
handlee shoul
should d be smal
smalle
lerr at the
the
the
the work
work to permpermit
it an easy
easy and
and
 bottom.
 natural rhythm. • Levers
Leve rs,, crcros
ossb
sbar
ars,
s, an
and
d han andd
wheels should be located in such
2.0 Arrangement of The Work Place
  pos
posit
itio
ions
ns that
that the
the oper
operat
ator
or can
can
• Theree shou
Ther should
ld be a defidefinite
nite and mani
manipu
pulalate
te them
them with
with the
the leas
leastt
fixed
fixed pl ace for all tools and
place change in body position and with
materials. the greatest mechanical advantage.
• Tool
To ols,
s, mate
materi
rial
als,
s, and
and cont
contro
rols
ls
4.0 Body Segment Classes
shou
should
ld be loclocat
ated
ed clo se in and
close
directly in front of the operator. • Use motions with the lowest
• Gravity feed bins and containers feasible class.
should be used whenever possible.
• Drop
Dro p deli verss shoul
deliver hould
d be used
used
whenever possible.
• Mat
Materi
erials
als and
and tool ools shou
shoulld be
located to permit the best sequence
of motions.

DISORDERS CAUSED.

MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS: Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSD) can range

MUSCULOSKELETAL
from general aches and pains to more serious Problems. Medical practitioners do
recommend that all the users who use computers regularly should report signs and
symptoms as early as possible to prevent serious injury or permanent damage.

 Musculoskeletal Disorders: Types

The different types of Musculoskeletal Disorders are as follows:

• Repetitive Stain Injury

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
• CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME:

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a pinched nerve (called the Median nerve) in the wrist.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is the inflammatory disorder that is caused due to
repetitive stress, physical injury or any other condition that causes the tissues around the
median nerve to inflate. carpal tunnel is a small canal or tunnel runs from the forearm
through the wrist. Bones form three walls of the tunnel, which are bridged by strong,
 broad ligament. The median nerve passes through this tunnel, which actually supplies
feeling to the thumb, index, and ring fingers, the nine tendons that flex the fingers and
also provides function for the thinner muscles, which are actually the muscles at the base
of the thumb.
When the protective lining of the tendons within the carpal tunnel inflamed and swell or 
when the ligam
ligament
ent that
that forms
forms the roof become
becomess thicke
thickerr and broader
broader leads
leads to Carpal
Carpal
Tunnel Syndrome. This ultimately results in pain, numbness, and tingling sensation in the
wrist, hand, and fingers leaving the little finger, as it not affected by the median nerve
which is nothing but the Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

The key risk factors in the workplace that causes the Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

• Repetition
• High force
• Awkward joint posture
• Direct pressure
• Vibration, and
• Prolonged constrained posture.

REPETITIVE STRAIN INJURY :

Repeti
Repetitive
tive Str
Strain Injury (RSI
ain Injury (RSI)) is the
the gener
general
al word
word that
that is used
used to desc
descriribe
be the
the
  prolonged pain experienced in shoulders or hands or neck or arms. Repetitive Strain
Injury occurs when the movable parts of the limbs are injured. Repetitive Strain Injury
usually caused due to repetitive tasks, incorrect posture, stress and bad ergonomics.
Repetitive
Repetitive Strain
Strain Injury
Injury generally
generally causes numbness, tingling,
tingling, weakness,
weakness, stiffing,
stiffing, and
swelling and even nerve damage. The chief complaint is the constant pain in the upper 
limbs, neck, shoulder and back. The Repetitive Stress Injury generally effects the group
of workers who generally use excessive and repetitive motion of the neck and head are at
high risk.

USE ERGONOMICS TO AVOID MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS .

 Taking regular breaks from working at your computer - a few minutes at least once an
hour 
 Altern
Alternati
ating
ng work
work tasks
tasks like
like mixing
mixing comput
computer
er tasks
tasks with
with non comput
computer
er tasks
tasks
alternately to avoid strain
 Using comfort equipment such as footrests, wrist/palm rests, and document holders if 
required
 Avoiding gripping your mouse too tightly – it is always recommended to hold the
mouse lightly and click gently.
• Establish healthcare management to emphasize the importance of early detection and
treatm
treatment
ent of muscul
musculosk
oskele
eletal
tal syste
systemm disord
disorders
ers for preven
preventin
ting
g impair
impairment
ment and
disability.
• Identify effective controls for tasks that pose a risk of musculoskeletal system injury
and evaluate these approaches once they have been instituted to see if they have
reduced or eliminated the problem.
• Gather data to identify jobs or work conditions that are most problematic, using
sources such as injury and illness logs, medical records, and job analyses.

Case studies.

 Dental Hygiene Work 

Task 

The job entails setting up a work station, which includes assembly of hand tools and
arrangement of lighting. The dentist also examines a patient, completes scaling and root
 planning, polishing, and flossing.

Problem

Due to limited
limited access to the oral cavity and the nature
nature of the tasks,
tasks, dental
dental hygiene work 
requir
requires
es prolon
prolonged
ged static
static trunk
trunk and neck flexio
flexion,
n, and awkwar
awkward d should
shoulder
er and wrist
wrist
 positions.

Intervention

Use chairs that are able to increase or decrease in height and move back to fit the comfort
of the operator. They are also designed to provide body support in the front and
the back. Surrounding work surfaces are low and positioned to make the reach for 
tools smooth and on a horizontal plane at elbow height for a seated person.

Cost:
RS.31500/- approx.

Evaluation of Intervention

Pros :-

1. Chairs
Chairs improve
improve access
access to the patients
patients oral cavity
cavity with less
less awkward
awkward positions
positions
2. Supports
Supports trunk
trunk and forearm
forearmss in
in forward
forward position,
position, and supports
supports back in the backward
backward
 positions
3. Less
Less cer
cervi
vica
call spine
spine flex
flexio
ion
n

Cons:-
The back of the chair may interfere
interfere with the headrest
headrest of the patient’s
patient’s chair, or block the
vision of the operator 

Criteria

Reduction of Identified Risk Factor 

 No New Risk Factors Introduced

Other Possible Interventions:

• Ergonomic hand instruments

CASE 2

 Hairstyling 

Task 

Hairstyling at a hair saloon, which includes working with blow dryers, curlers, and
scissors.

Problem

The beauticians complain of back and wrist pain when using the curling iron. The major 
risks
risks involv
involved
ed are repeti
repetitiv
tive,
e, forcef
forceful
ul graspi
grasping,
ng, awkwar
awkward
d wrist
wrist postur
posturee due to ulnar 
ulnar 
deviation, and shoulder abduction.

Intervention

Redes
Redesigign
n the
the curli
curling
ng iron
iron so that
that ther
theree is not
not as much
much repe
repeat
ated
ed wris
wristt devi
deviat
atio
ion.
n.
Modifications to the curling iron include adaptable handles that can be used without
excessive bending or twisting of the wrist. A switch will be used to trigger the curler to
spin, causing the hair to wrap around the hot iron.

Cost: Rs. 11250/- approx.

Evaluation of Intervention

Pros:-
1. Reduces
Reduces the need
need to devi
deviate
ate the
the wrist
wrist
2. Lowers
Lowers peak
peak force
force appli
applied
ed during
during task
task activi
activity
ty

Cons:-

1. May
May affe
affect
ct use
use and
and prec
precis
isio
ionn
2. Does not reduce
reduce should
shoulder
er abdu
abducti
ction
on

Criteria

1. Reduct
Reduction
ion of
of Ident
Identif
ified
ied Risk
Risk Factor 
Factor 
2. No New Risk
Risk Fact
Factors
ors Introd
Introduced
uced

Other Possible Interventions:

1. Mod
Modify
ify chai
chairs
rs to opti
optimiz
mizee working
working rang
rangee
2. Lower
Lower mirr
mirror
or and counte
counterr heigh
heightt

CASE 3

 Design of push carts

Task 
To push and pull heavy loads with a cart

Problem
Risks associated with pushing and pulling of heavy loads

Intervention
On 4-wheeled carts, swivel casters should be located on the handle end, so that they can
 be used on all 4 wheels.
wheels. The casters
casters themselves
themselves should
should be at least
least 4â€ in size. The wheel
wheel
can be replaced with hard plastic or pneumatic tires. The bearing should be maintained
regu
regula
larl
rly.
y. Handl
Handlee heig
height
ht should
should be in the range
range of 36â€ -42â
-42  . Th
Thee handl
handles
es shoul
should
d
accommodate a pushing movement, as opposed to a pulling movement. Some equipment
suggestions that accommodate these needs are the electric hand truck, the electric push
cart, and the electric platform truck.

Cost:

1. Electric hand truck – Rs. 180000/- approx.

2. Electric push cart – Rs. 81000/- approx.
3. Electric platform truck – Rs. 67500/- approx.

Evaluation of Intervention

Pros:-
 1. Swivel caster
casterss on all 4 wheels
wheels will
will allow for
for maneuverin
maneuvering
g in very tight
tight spaces
spaces
2. Harder
Harder cast
casters
ers decre
decrease
ase neces
necessar
sary
y force
force

Cons:-

1. Requir
Requires
es regula
regularr mainte
maintenan
nance
ce
2. Wheels
Wheels cannot
cannot be easily
easily adjusted
adjusted to changes
changes in terrai
terrain
n
3. Batt
Batter
erie
iess requi
require
re char
chargi
ging
ng

Criteria

1. Reduct
Reduction
ion of
of Ident
Identif
ified
ied Risk
Risk Factor 
Factor 
2. No New Risk
Risk Fact
Factors
ors Introd
Introduced
uced
3. Prod
Product
uctiv
ivit
ity
y not
not Redu
Reduceced
d

Other Possible Interventions:

1. Tread
Tread and
and corros
corrosion
ion shoul
should
d be monit
monitore
ored
d

CASE 4

 Palletizing of Beer Cases

Task 

Loading of pallets with cases of beer 

Problem

The general body posture risk factors include trunk forward bending and twisting, and
shoulder extension. Other risks were the vertical distance of the lift at the destination,
increa
increased
sed load
load to the lumbar
lumbar spine
spine caused
caused by horizo
horizonta
ntall distan
distance,
ce, and whole
whole bod
bodyy
exertions.

Intervention

A redesigned workstation will alleviate same problems. The most effective intervention
to improve vertical distance of the lift is the installation of a scissor lift to increase the
height of the first tier of cases to a more appropriate lifting zone. Another way to reduce
vertical distance reach is to restrict the pallet height to 4 tiers of beer cases. A rotating
device under the pallet would reduce the horizontal distance of the lift. Pallets should also
 be placed at the end of an extended
extended conveyor to increase
increase buffer capacity for performing
performing
other job tasks.

Cost:
Rs. 202500/- approx.
Evaluation of Intervention

Pros:-

1. Accomm
Accommodatodates
es worker
workerss of vario
various
us heigh
heights
ts
2. Minima
Minimall asymm
asymmetr
etryy in moving
moving boxes
boxes
3. Redu
Reduce
cess car
carry
ry dist
distan
ance
ce
4. Increa
Increasin
singg buffer
buffer capacity
capacity incre
increase
asess safety
safety

Cons:-

1. Increa
Increases
ses the number
number of pallet
pallet being filled
filled per day,
day, which shifts
shifts injury
injury to low
 back 

Criteria

1. Reduct
Reduction
ion of
of Ident
Identif
ified
ied Risk
Risk Factor 
Factor 
2. No New Risk
Risk Fact
Factors
ors Introd
Introduced
uced
3. Prod
Product
uctiv
ivit
ity
y not
not Redu
Reduceced
d

Other Possible Interventions:

1. Design
Design the convey
conveyoror to route the
the boxes to 2 buffer
buffer zones,
zones, divide
divided
d by a barrier,
barrier, for 
symmetry.
2. Install
Install a lift
lift aid
aid to decrease
decrease load
load amount
amount lifted
lifted by workers.
workers.

CASE 5

Telephone Information Center Operator 

Task 
To attend calls and provide information to all the customers.

Problem

1. View
Viewining
g the
the city
city map requ
requir
ires
es leanin
leaningg over
over the
the desk;
desk; more extrem
extremee bend
bendiningg is
required to see the northern portion of the city.
2. The downtow
downtown n area locate
located
d in the middl
middlee right secti
section
on of the map is accessed
accessed most
most
frequently and is the most detailed, increasing visual demand.
3. Light from
from windows
windows and overhead
overhead lights
lights is reflected
reflected on the glass
glass plate
plate covering
covering maps
and on computer monitors at many of the workstations, depending on orientation with
respect to light sources.
4. Desks are
are too high at 31"
31" for many
many of the employe
employees,
es, requiring
requiring awkward
awkward reaches
reaches for 
the keyboard.
5. Th
Thee new
new chai
chairs
rs being
being order
ordered
ed are too
too low
low for
for the
the heig
height
ht of the
the desks
desks,, requ
requir
irin
ing
g
additional forward bending and standing to view the map.
6. Placem
Placement
ent of monitors
monitors in desk corner
corner requires
requires neck twisti
twisting;
ng; several
several of the presen
presentt
monitor arms are not functioning properly

Intervention

Repla
Replace
ce curr
curren
entt desk
deskss with
with work
workst
stat
atio
ions
ns with
with heig
height
ht-- and
and slope
slope-a
-adj
djus
usta
tabl
blee input
input
  platforms offering forearm support. Incline the back half of the map to at least 60
degrees.
degrees. The map will need to be either creased,
creased, curved, or re-printed
re-printed onto 2 halves
halves and
then covered with an anti-glare sheet. This brings the hard to see top part of the map
within viewing distance and allows the keyboard to remain flat on the work surface.
However, glare on the flat portion of the map will still be present. The monitor should be
 positioned to one side of the map.

Cost:

Approx. Rs. 30000 per workstation

Evaluation of Intervention

Pros:-

1. Reduced
Reduced forwar
forwardd bendi
bending
ng toto read
read map
2. Glar
Glaree reduc
educed
ed
3. Keyb
Keyboaoard
rd at
at opti
optima
mall leve
levell
4. Neck
Neck twist
twisting
ing reduc
reduced
ed to view
view monit
monitor 
or 

Cons:-

1. Glare
Glare still
still exist
exist on bottom
bottom half
half of
of Map
Map

Criteria

1. Reduct
Reduction
ion of
of Ident
Identif
ified
ied Risk
Risk Factor 
Factor 
2. No New Risk
Risk Fact
Factors
ors Introd
Introduced
uced
3. Prod
Product
uctiv
ivit
ity
y not
not Redu
Reduceced
d

Other Possible Interventions:

1. Sit-st
Sit-stand
and works
workstat
tation
ion with
with the map
map hung on a wall
wall
2. Digitize
Digitize the map and have it available
available on the monitor
monitor screen
screen
3. Enlarg
Enlargee frequen
frequentl
tly
y used
used areas
areas of the map
map

CASE STUDY ON TOYOTA

 Overview: Toyota, the fourth largest automaker in North America, has three vehicle
assembly plants in the United States and one in Canada. Toyota Logistics in Georgetown,
Kentucky was facing significant design changes between two model years, resulting in
 potential ergonomic risk and inefficiencies, particularly with the rear spoiler installation.
Humantech assisted Toyota's Georgetown, Kentucky logistics operation in improving the
rear spoiler installation for one of its hottest selling vehicles. A combination of low-cost
and high-
high-im
impa
pact
ct impr
improve
oveme
ment
ntss resu
result
lted
ed in reduc
reduced
ed ergon
ergonom
omic
ic risk
risk and
and a 62%
improvement in cycle time, translating into a $262,000 annual savings in direct labor 
costs
costs.. Lo
Long
ng-t
-ter
erm
m savi
saving
ngss incl
includ
udee decr
decrea
ease
sed
d medi
medica
call and
and work
worker
ers'
s' compe
compensnsat
atio
ion
n
expenses, lower absenteeism, and reduced training of new associates.

Toyota's Motor Manufacturing Assembly

Task Prior to Abatement (Description)

Workers had to perform auto plants normal production
p roduction assembly. The tasks involve
various postures, reaching distances, pinching or gripping,
g ripping, and manual lifting.

Task Prior to Abatement (Method Which Identified Hazard)

There were an increasing number of work-related injuries and illnesses, most of which
related to upper extremities.

Ergonomic Risk Factor (Posture)

Workers had excessive forward bending to perform a task.
Workers had to climb inside a car to install a part.

Ergonomic Solution (Administrative Controls)

Record keeping was made easier.
Training programs were provided.
Job rotation program was set.
CTD detection and early prevention were incorporated in the ergonomics intervention
 program.
Personal protective equipment, physical therapy, and workplace accommodations were
 provided.
With indication of early symptoms of CTDs, workers are sent to industrial health services
for a medical evaluation.

Ergonomic Solution (Engineering Controls)

An automated chair for moving the seated worker in and out of the vehicle has been
developed.
The work surface has been tilted to minimize the worker's forward bending.

Ergonomic Solution (Benefits)

All workers that perform the tasks now have reduced exposure to CTDs.
Reduction in workers' compensation costs.
Ergonomic Solution (Method Which Verified Effectiveness)
CTD-related incidents have been reduced by implementing ergonomics interventions.

Comments
This ergonomics evaluation system, although argued to be too subjective, pinpoints
 problem areas before they become critical.

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