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Ergonomics Programs

There are five aspects of ergonomics: safety, comfort, ease of use, productivity/performance, and aesthetics. Ergonomics is a science concerned with the ‘fit’ between people and their work. It takes account of the worker's capabilities and limitations in seeking to ensure that tasks, equipment, information and the environment suit each worker.

1. Lifting Techniques

  • Test the Load: Check if the load is manageable before lifting.
  • Plan Ahead: Know your route before starting.
  • Divide Loads: Split heavy items into smaller, manageable ones when possible.
  • Use Equipment: Utilize carts or ask for assistance when needed.
  • Mid-Body Storage: Place heavy items at waist height for easier handling.
  • Avoid Risks: Don’t lift items that are slippery, hot, or unevenly balanced.
  • Body Positioning: Keep arms and the load close to your body; bend at the knees and let legs/hips do most of the work.
  • No Back Arching: Maintain a straight back to prevent strain.
  • Controlled Movements: Use small steps and avoid jerky motions.
  • Proper Technique: Always use correct lifting practices, even for light objects.

2. Pushing and Pulling

  • Two Hands: Always push/pull with both hands.
  • Visibility: Ensure clear vision without twisting your body.
  • Body Alignment: Keep upper arms close to your sides and hands at waist level.
  • Foot Positioning: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent.
  • Weight Shifting: Move loads by shifting weight from back to front leg.
  • Push, Don’t Pull: Pushing uses body weight efficiently and reduces the risk of injury.

3. Safe Movement

  • Route Preparation: Clear obstacles before starting to move a load.
  • Barriers: Set up barriers to keep others at a safe distance from moving loads.
  • Timing: Move objects during low-traffic times.
  • Breaks: Take rest periods when handling heavy loads over long distances.
  • Steady Pace: Avoid sudden or quick movements to maintain control.

4. Placing or Depositing Loads

  • Neutral Posture: Maintain a neutral body alignment to avoid injury.
  • Wide Stance: Position one foot in front of the other for balance.
  • Close Handling: Keep the load near your body when placing it.
  • Knee Bending: Bend at the knees when setting down a load.
  • Finger Safety: Tilt objects near the ground for easy finger removal.
  • Slow Movements: Place items without abrupt or jerky motions.
  • Adequate Space: Ensure there is enough room to slide items in easily to avoid hand injuries.

If You Must Move Something:

  1. Request Help:

Please see the following helpful Ergonomics guides:

Check List for Evaulation of Ergonomic Stress

Ergonomic Stress Checklists

Checklist for Evaluation of Ergonomic Stress in Industrial Shops 

It is the beginning of a new year - and it may be a great opportunity to check out our work environment to ensure our tasks and work sites are ergonomically setup to avoid undue stress or strain on our bodies, i.e., proper tools, repetitive tasks, workstation setup -- a small adjustment can make a big difference.

Contact safety@nps.edu and set up an appointment to visit your work site and conduct a one-on-one survey.

 

Checklist for Evaluation of Ergonomic Stress in Offices 

It is the beginning of a new year - and it may be a great opportunity to check out our work environment to ensure we are ergonomically positioned in our chairs and in front of computer keyboards and screens. Symptoms such as stiff shoulders, neck, painful arms or wrists may be a symptoms of a poorly adjusted chair or keyboard tray height -- a small adjustment can make a big difference.

Contact safety@nps.edu and set up an appointment to visit your work site and conduct a one-on-one survey.