The Science of Ergonomics - D N Bid

8/14/2019 The Science of Ergonomics - D N Bid

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The Science of The Science of

ErgonomicsErgonomicsDr. Dibyendunarayan Bid

MPT; PGDSPTPrincipal I/cThe Sarvajanik College of Physiotherapy, Rampura, Surat


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If we want tochange theresponse . . .

We need tochange thecircumstances!


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Ergonomics DefinedEarly 1700s, Ramazzinis study of ill-effects of poor

posture & poorly designed tools on the health of workers.

Greek Words: Ergon = work, Nomikos = law

Ergonomics: Study of Laws of work 6


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What Is Ergonomics?What Is Ergonomics?

Ergonomics is fitting the job to the person.

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Ergonomics

Human Machin e

Work Environment

Utmost Goal: Humanization of Work

Design with E & E: Ease and Efficiency8


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The Basics of Ergonomics

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Applications of ErgonomicsApplications of ErgonomicsAnatomy

OrthopedicsPhysiology

MedicinePsychologySociology

Industrial EngineeringBio-Engineering

Systems EngineeringSafety Engineering

Military EngineeringComputer-Aided Design

AnthropometryBiomechanicsWork Physiology

Industrial HygieneManagement

Labor Relations

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Where Does Ergonomics Fit In?Where Does Ergonomics Fit In?

Physical HazardsChemical HazardsBiological Hazards

Ergonomics

Human Machin e

Work Environment 13


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The benefits of an ergonomic programThe benefits of an ergonomic program

Decreased injuries & illnesses .

Increased efficiency at work.

Increased physical well being.

Decreased absenteeism.


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Ergonomic related injuriesErgonomic related injuries

May be called: CTDs (cumulative trauma disorders)

RSIs (repetitive stress injuries) RMIs (repetitive motion injuries)

Which are all considered:

MSDs (musculoskeletal disorders)

MSDs can affect muscles, tendons, nerves, joints andspinal disks.


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Risk factors and causes of MSDsRisk factors and causes of MSDs

RepetitionForce

Awkward PostureStatic PostureContact Stress

Temperature ExtremesVibrationPsycho Social


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Identifying Risk FactorsIdentifying Risk FactorsConditions or circumstances that increase thechances of developing a MSD.

The likelihood of developing an injury isdependent on the frequency and duration of exposure to risk factors.

Both occupational and personal risk factorscan affect an individuals well being at home or

work.


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RepetitionRepetitionOccurs when the same or similar movementsare performed frequently.

Repetition can also occur when different tasksare performed if those tasks have the samemovements.

Injury may result from repetition when thetissues do not have adequate time to recover.


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ForceForceForce is the amount of physical effort required by a

person to do a task or maintain control of tools or equipment.

A pinch grip produces 3-5 times more force on thetendons in the wrist than a grip with the wholehand.

With excessive force the muscles are contractingmuch harder than normal, this can lead to stress onthe muscles, tendons and joints.


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Awkward PostureAwkward Posture

Is a deviation from the neutral body position.

A neutral body position is safest and mostefficient position in which to work.

Awkward posture puts stress on muscles,tendons and joints.


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Static PostureStatic Posture

Static posture occurs when one position isheld for a prolonged period of time.

The muscles will become fatigued from alack of blood flow during a static posture.

This fatigue can lead to discomfort andeven injury.


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Contact StressContact Stress

Contact stress is caused by any sharp or hard object putting localized pressure on a

part of the body.

Contact stress will irritate local tissues and

interfere with circulation and nervefunction.


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Temperature ExtremesTemperature Extremes

Extreme cold constricts bloodvessels and reduces sensitivity

and coordination of body parts.

Excessive heat can result inincreased fatigue and heatstress.


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VibrationVibrationExposure to vibration can occur whileusing power tools or while drivingequipment.

Vibration from power tools can placestress on the tissues of the fingers,hand and arms.

Whole body vibration from driving puts stress on the spinal tissues.


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Psycho-social IssuesPsycho-social Issues

Stress, boredom, job dissatisfaction andanxiety can contribute to the possibility of

developing a MSD.Psycho-social issues can create increasedmuscle tension and reduce a persons

awareness of work technique.


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Adjusting the WorkstationAdjusting the Workstation

Adjust the Chair.

Adjust reach requirements.

Adjust focal requirements.


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Improve Posture and HabitsImprove Posture and Habits

Modify wrist/hand motions

Improve neck and back postures

Consider personal preferences


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Adjustable Platforms


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Arrange the work areaArrange the work area

Consider the base of support.

Place equipment and materials whereappropriate.


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Choose the appropriate toolsChoose the appropriate tools

Check the fit.

Make sure the tools match the task.


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Correct the environmentCorrect the environment

Adjust lighting, noise and temperaturewhen possible.

Check work pace.

Check work processes.


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Improve work techniques and habitsImprove work techniques and habits

Improve postures.

Check work techniques.


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Control StrategiesControl Strategies

The next step is to develop and implementcontrol strategies to increase quality and

productivity.

Once the risk factors and their causes areidentified, control strategies can beimplemented based on needs.


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Administrative ControlsAdministrative Controls

Training workers in work methods.

Varying or rotating work tasks.

Limiting extended work hours.

Providing mini-breaks.


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What you can do to prevent injury?What you can do to prevent injury?

Develop an Ergonomics program.

Take proper breaks.

Health and Fitness.

Be aware of your hobbies away fromwork.


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Summary of Ergonomic Principles:Summary of Ergonomic Principles:

Position and support body inneutralWork in reach zoneProvide correct tools, equipment

and facilitiesPromote effective work processesPromote Health and Wellness


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Thank you for Thank you for your your attention!attention!

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The Science of Ergonomics - D N Bid