Improving Fit Between Tasks and Capabilities of Workers

These include: rearranging, modifying, redesigning, providing or replacing tools, equipment, workstations, packaging, parts, processes, products or materials.

Administrative Improvements

Observe how different workers perform the same tasks to get ideas for improving work practices or organizing the work. Then consider the following improvements:

• Alternate heavy tasks with light tasks;

• Provide variety in jobs to eliminate or reduce repetition (i.e., overuse of the same muscle groups);

• Adjust work schedules, work pace, or work practices;

• Provide recovery time (e.g., short rest breaks);

• Modify work practices so that workers perform work within their power zone (i.e., above the knees, below the shoulders, and close to the body);

• Rotate workers through jobs that use different muscles, body parts, or postures.

Administrative improvements, such as job rotation, can help reduce workers’ exposures to risk factors by limiting the amount of time workers spend on “problem jobs.” However, these measures may still expose workers to risk factors that can lead to injuries. For these reasons, the most effective way to eliminate “problem jobs” is to change them.

This can be done by putting into place the appropriate engineering improvements and modifying work practices accordingly.

Training alone is not an ergonomic improvement. Instead, it should be used together with any workplace changes made. Workers need training and hands-on practice with new tools, equipment, or work practices to make sure they have the skills necessary to work safely.

Training is most effective when it is interactive and fully involves workers.

The following are some suggestions for training based on adult learning principles:

• Provide hands-on practice when new tools, equipment, or procedures are introduced to the workforce;

• Use several types of visual aids (e.g., pictures, charts, videos) of actual tasks in your workplace;

• Hold small-group discussions and problem-solving sessions;

• Give workers ample opportunity for questions.

For alternatives to manual handling of individual containers, consider the following:

• Change the container;

• Use a tool;

• Use non-powered equipment;

• Use powered equipment.

Use equipment to carry materials whenever possible. If you must manually carry materials on your shoulder, reduce the weight of the load and use a pad to provide a cushion. Redesign containers so they have handles, grips, or handholds, and hold the container close to the body. Don’t carry more than you can handle. To reduce the weight of the load, use a smaller container.

Wear proper size gloves that fit. Gloves with rubber dots on the surface can increase grip stability on slippery surfaces. When handling a bucket or pail, increase the size of the handle with padding or a clamp-on handle. Get co-worker assistance when necessary.

Discuss your plan so you don’t have surprise movements.

Know your load and buy equipment of appropriate capacity. Remember, lighter weight equipment is easier to move.

Choose equipment appropriate for the material(s) being handled, the layout and design of your workplace, and the work tasks being performed. Consider using powered equipment —rather than non-powered — when pushing and pulling forces are excessive.

If available, select equipment with vertical handles so workers’ hands can be in their power zone.

Choose wheeled equipment that minimizes start forces (inertia) and reduces rolling resistance.

The amount of force required to move loads with wheeled equipment depends on a number of factors including:

• Weight and shape of the load;

• Type and condition of the floor surface (e.g., smoothness, density, and other factors);

• Route taken (e.g., slopes, obstacles, and other factors);

• Type of wheels (i.e., the materials they are made of);

• Size of wheels (larger wheels a minimum of 6-inches in diameter move more easily over holes, bumps, and floor irregularities);

• Maintenance of wheels; it is important to clean, lubricate, and/or replace wheels on a regular basis;

• Ground all electrically operated equipment;

• Make sure equipment alarms and warning devices are audible and working properly;

• Inspect and maintain equipment according to manufacturers’ recommendations;

• Follow all manufacturers’ recommendations for proper equipment use.

Clear the aisles and doorways for safe passage and maneuvering of equipment.

Set barriers that prevent employees from coming close to or beneath supported or moving loads.

In tight spaces, use equipment with four swivel casters or wheels. Loads are easier to turn and control.

Train employees on proper equipment use and appropriate work practices. Push and pull equipment with the entire body instead of with just the arms and shoulders.

When pushing or pulling use both hands when feasible. To move heavy loads over long distances, either reduce the load or use powered equipment. Inspect pallets before loading or moving them. FSM