What is ergonomics? Ergonomics is a way of designing workstations, work practices, and work flow to accommodate the capabilities of workers. Ergonomic design reduces risk factors known to contribute to occupational ergonomic injuries and illnesses, such as sprains and strains and cumulative trauma disorders (CTDs). If work is performed in awkward postures or with excessive effort, fatigue and discomfort may result. Under these conditions muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, and blood vessels can be damaged. Injuries of this type are known as musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).

The problem

The increased rate and high cost of ergonomic injuries and illnesses such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, and MSDs cut across all industries and occupations. Some of the hardest hit are manufacturing, retail, and service industries. Take a look at your OSHA 300 Log. You will probably notice that most (30%-50%) of your recordable injuries are somehow related to ergonomics.

MSDs can increase the cost of doing business both directly and indirectly. Direct costs may include medical services and higher workers’ compensation premiums. The direct cost to close an ergonomic-related workers’ compensation claim in Oregon averages over $9,000. Indirect costs from increased employee turnover, absenteeism, and retraining may also occur. Productivity, product quality, and employee morale may also suffer. Estimates indicate that the indirect costs associated with MSDs may be four to 10 times higher than the direct costs. Preventing and controlling ergonomic risk factors in the workplace often costs a fraction of what one such claim would cost. In smaller companies, one ergonomic-related claim can mean the difference between being above or below the profit margin.

An important strategy to solve the problem

One of the important services your company's workers compensation premiums pay for is Oregon OSHA consultation and training. Oregon OSHA consultants work with you to provide cost-effective recommendations to solve your ergonomics problems. They recognize that no two organizations are alike and help you make changes that fit into your company’s existing management programs and work practices.

Oregon OSHA’s Consultative Services Section has a team of trained professional ergonomics consultants with many years of experience providing ergonomic services to such areas of industry as electronics, pulp and paper, secondary wood products, retail grocery, food processing, healthcare, office environments, public transportation, municipalities, school districts, higher education, and state government. Consultants also provide customized presentations and training for groups and associations. An ergonomic consultation may include:

• Workstation analysis and design
• Task-specific and company-wide risk factor assessment
• Training and education
• Development and implementation assistance for ergonomic programs
• Help prioritizing ergonomic needs
• Answers to questions about current and possible regulatory requirements

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