What are some signs of poor workplace ergonomics?
The easiest measure is increased insurance costs and workers’ compensation experience modifier. Other red flags include strain injuries on accident reports, increased turnover, requests for workstation transfers and worker-modified workstations or tools. What areas require special consideration? Jobs that need to be reviewed to assess ergonomic hazards could have one or more of these hazards or exposures: • Cold or vibrating tools • Hot or cold environments • Heavy lifting or overhead reaches • Repetitive production tasks • Awkward twisting motions • Standing on concrete • Improper use of hand or power tools • Poorly designed seating or poor lighting • High-rate assembly • Incentive-pay jobs How can employers pinpoint their specific issues? You can start by reviewing previous accident reports. The OSHA 300 form includes a brief description of the incident. Losses that could be related to ergonomic issues include: strains, sprains, manual material handling, wrist pains or numbness, and
