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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3499 Manufacturing (Fabricated metal products) |
| Work setting and tasks | Various metal forming jobs such as cutting, shaping, and threading, and assembly tasks at a manufacturer of hand-held lubrication equipment. |
| Work-related musculoskeletal problems found | Upper limb and neck, back |
| Ergonomic risk factors found | Repetitive and forceful exertions, awkward postures, heavy lifting |
| Recommendations | Engineering controls were suggested for better presentation of stock and parts to eliminate excessive reaches (by using power lifts and better positioned racks), redesign of workstations, and repositioning of machine tools. It was recommended that the company continue to alert workers to ergonomic hazards and encourage early reporting of WMSD complaints. |
| HETA/NTIS reference no. | HETA 81–375–1277 NTIS order no. PB–84–209–717 |