A Primer Based on Workplace Evaluations of Musculoskeletal Disorders
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Elements of Ergonomics Programs A Primer Based on Workplace Evaluations of Musculoskeletal Disorders |
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Toolbox Tray 1-A: NIOSH Investigations of WMSDs in Work Settings |
| Standard industrial classification
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3463 Manufacturing (Metal forging and stamping) |
| Work setting and tasks | Aluminum forging operations. Focus on tasks performed in pressing area. |
| Work-related musculoskeletal problems found | Musculoskeletal strain and tendinitis dominated injury reports. |
| Ergonomic risk factors found | Repetitive lifting and pulling actions from awkward positions in handling aluminum pieces. Deviated wrist in use of tools (tongs), hand/wrist strains from extended holding, and kickback of lubrication guns when activated. |
| Recommendations | Engineering controls were suggested to (1) improve conveyor systems and lift devices to ease heavy load handling, (2) add adjustable height features to presses to relieve awkward postures, and (3) redesign tong handles and use counterbalanced suspension of lubrication guns to reduce upper extremity strains. Job rotation, added training, and medical monitoring also proposed for risk reduction. |
| HETA/NTIS reference no. | HETA 95–0109–2520 NTIS order no. PB–96–115–415 |