Ergonomics
What is ergonomics?
Ergonomics is the science of fitting the job to the worker. When there is a mismatch between the physical requirements of the job and the physical capacity of the worker, the worker might experience discomfort. In some cases, a musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) can result.
What is an MSD?
MSDs are injuries and disorders of the muscles, nerves, tendons, ligaments, joints, cartilage and spinal discs diagnosed by a physician. Examples can include tendonitis, herniated disc, and bursitis. Injuries that result from slips, trips and falls are not considered MSDs.
What are common ergonomic risk factors?
- Awkward/static postures: maintaining an awkward or fixed posture for a prolonged period of time
- Repetition: performing the same activity repeatedly over a prolonged period of time
- Contact stress: prolonged body contact with a hard surface, such as the hard edge of a desk
- Excessive force: excessive exertion from lifting, pushing, pulling, or gripping
- Vibration: using vibrating tools and equipment for a prolonged period of time
What about personal risk factors?
Certain medical conditions can impact job comfort. In addition, hobbies that involve repetition or awkward postures can be important risk factors that impact job comfort.
What can I do to reduce ergonomic risk factors?
Supervisors
- Be aware of risk factors
- Encourage staff input regarding ergonomic issues
- Participate in and provide ergonomic training
- Provide appropriate furniture and tools
- Call the BCN Risk Management/Workers' Compensation Office when you need assistance
Faculty and Staff
- Participate in training
- Adjust your workstations to support comfortable work postures
- Vary job tasks
- Seek assistance from your supervisor or the BCN Risk Management/Workers' Compensation Office
- Report discomfort/injuries immediately
- Stay physically fit
How the BCN Risk Management/Workers' Compensation Office can help
- Training: We provide ergonomic training on a regular basis
- Workstation evaluation: We will evaluate your workstation
- Furniture/Tools: We will evaluate purchases for ergonomic characteristics
Ergonomic Assistance
Request an Ergonomic Evaluation
Recommended Ergonomic Equipment
Computer Setup Handout - What you need to know to setup or adjust your computer workstation.
Safe Lifting Handout - Lifting techniques bulletin from the U.S. Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventative Medicine. Technique for virtually any type of lift you may need to make.
Tool Use - Ergonomic Handout