Ergonomics is a term that is thrown around quite a bit – mostly by companies trying to sell something. But what is ergonomics and how is it relevant to those who work in the roofing and sheet metal industry? After all, the term ergonomics (or ergonomically designed) is often used in talking about an office chair, a computer mouse, and things related to a computer workstation.
The truth is ergonomics is a far broader concept than most people know. It is an entire scientific field of study. Simply defined, ergonomics is the process of designing a job, task, equipment or work environment to the unique physical characteristics of the workers. It is focused on reducing the risk of soft-tissue injuries like nerves, tendons, muscles, and ligaments. Collectively, these types of injuries are called musculoskeletal injuries. Many times, ergonomics is focused on preventing injuries that develop slowly over time, like carpal tunnel syndrome, and tendonitis.
Unlike injuries from falls, electrocution, or other serious hazards, musculoskeletal disorders don’t seem very serious when they first show up. They start with minor discomfort in the early stages. These symptoms go away after a short break or at night when you don’t work. But returning to the same activity the next day brings back the symptoms. Your body can recover between episodes of intense activity in the earlier stages when the symptoms are mild or moderate but eventually, your body may not be able to recover. Recognizing the problems in work tasks that cause these symptoms is the first step to eliminating them.
5 common ergonomic hazards may exist in work activities.
- Repetition– involves doing the same task repeatedly that uses the same muscles over and over.
- High Force– using high muscle power during activities such as heavy lifting, pushing items or gripping tools.
- Awkward Postures– working with your body held in a poor position for a long time.
- Contact Stress– when pressure from an object is pushed on the soft body tissues (i.e. tool handle).
- Hand-arm vibration– a vibration that enters the body from power tools or equipment.
One of these hazards over a long time can cause a problem, but activities with more than one hazard can increase physical discomfort even more and can lead to a significant musculoskeletal injury.
DISCUSS WITH YOUR CREW
Think about tasks that are uncomfortable or difficult to perform. Do any of them involve one or more of the 5 common ergonomic hazards listed above?
What solutions (work technique, tools or equipment) have you tried to eliminate one or more of the 5 common ergonomic hazards and make the task easier to perform?
Remember – applying the principles of ergonomics can not only help you protect your body from injuries make the work easier on your body and help you to work more efficiently.