Question

identify and describe a scenario that involves an ergonomic injury and determine guidelines to prevent further injuries in the work setting. Be sure to explain how the U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety & Health Administration’s criteria for ergonomic injuries might apply to the scenario.

Answer 1

An ergonomic hazard is any interaction made with the external environment that causes discomfort, injury or strain. They generally result in poor postures, unnatural and uncomfortable movements.

Many muscle strains result from performing the same motion repetitively. A scenario of an ergonomic injury can be of industries where the nature of work is physically demanding and require workers to lift, push and handle heavy objects and load. Some require the workers to perform a same motion over and over again while some require the workers to stand or sit for an extended period of time. These activities, coupled with poor ergonomics can lead to neck and lower back injuries, tendinitis (inflammation or irritation and gradual weakening of the tendons), elbow strains, musculoskeletal disorders as a result of overexertion from lifting heavy load etc.

The steps to be taken by the industry owner to prevent further injuries are discussed as follows:

• The first step is to assess the situation and find the reasons behind such injury. Then, efficient procedures and processes must be established to administer work practice controls.
• Heavy loads must be lifted by two people to limit force exertion.
• Establish systems so that workers are rotated between shifts to prevent extensive periods of sitting/standing, repetitive motions.
• Periodic breaks should be provided between scheduled breaks
• The tools and machines used must be periodically examined to prevent any damage or mishappening.
• Use of padding to avoid direct contacts with sharp objects.

The U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety & Health Administration’s criteria for ergonomic injuries that applies to the scenario is explained below:

The employer has to implement a full ergonomics program to improve the ergonomic design of the workplace, the requirements of which are:

• The employer has to appoint a person from the management and provide him with full authority, information and responsibility to implement the program.
• The next step is to identify and minimize or eliminate the ergonomic risks
• Within 45 days of the incident, the employer must provide initial training to employees in similar job. Every 3 years the employer must provide follow up ergonomics training.
• Timely evaluation must be done by the employer to determine the success of the program, any deficiencies must be corrected and a record of such incidents with complete details must be maintained.