The Workplace Ergonomics Program

(2) Forceful exertions: Where forceful exertions are identified in the analysis some specific steps may be required for evaluation and intervention. It may be necessary to estimate loads and friction resistance, make posture adjustments, determine need for mechanical aids, consider use of gloves, and evaluate muscle use with tools such as resistance meters and surface electromyography equipment.

(3) Localized mechanical stresses: Does the work require specific forces and/or contact with areas of the worker's body?

(4) Posture stresses: Identification of posture stresses can be accomplished through job analysis observation and/or video tape. The analysis may be supplemented with instrumentation noted in (2) above, analysis of orientation of the worker in relation to the work, review of types of tools used, and use of anthropometric data.

Design of Jobs.When considering design or redesign of jobs the objective is to minimize ergonomic stresses present in the performance of the work. Interventions considered must eliminate or reduce employee exposure to the potential for suffering from CTDs and other back and upper extremity pain, while allowing accomplishment of the organization's mission.

1. Propose interventions. A complete job analysis includes reporting of the findings, recommendations for design of control measures, and evaluation of actions taken. The report may be formal or less formal, depending on the extent of recommendations for change. Intervention is accomplished through the application of appropriate engineering changes, and/or implementation of

administrative control for the work. Intervention is followed by evaluation.

1.1 Engineering Changes include actual modifications to the physical work site and any tools or equipment used in the work process. Determination of needed changes may require assistance of medical, safety and other recognized experts.

(1) Tools - Are power assists available? Can handles be changed?

(2) Machines/Equipment - Are changes necessary to the equipment? Economic impact may be a necessary consideration in some cases.

1.2 Administrative Controls are necessary as interim protective measures, pending completion of required engineering changes. In some situations administrative controls may be the only intervention needed.

(1)Work area - Can changes be made in the work/equipment location and orientation? Are proper chairs used?

(2) Methods - Is there another way to do the work? Is job rotation allowed?

(3) Standards - If standards are established for the work, are they realistic, up-to-date?

(4) Schedules - Are schedules flexible enough to provide periodic rest breaks and/or on-the-job exercises? Are work schedules flexible?

(5) Education/Training - Are employees trained to recognize problems and take proper action?

(6) Maintenance - Is equipment with moving parts, e.g., wheels, lifts, etc., properly inspected and maintained?

Evaluation. Each intervention action taken to prevent/reduce CTDs and other related disorders requires follow-up evaluation to assess effectiveness of the action. The evaluation can be accomplished through:

Job Analysis - using the methods described above, and/or

Active/Passive Surveillance - methods described in Surveillance.

Assessment - evaluation of information from a. and b. above to determine whether the goal has been achieved

MEDICAL MANAGEMENT

The goal of medical management is to ensure evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of repetitive strain disorders, and to provide avenues for prevention. Integration of medical management is essential to the success of the program. All medical evaluations, records, and data as well as results of surveys etc. are handled in a manner which preserves the anonymity of individual employees and maintains the confidentiality of personal and medical information. The components of this program are: Accessibility; Health Surveillance; Identification of Restricted-Duty Jobs; Medical Intervention; and Record-keeping, Data Evaluation, and Action.