Workplace ergonomic assessments are beneficial for employees and the employers. From the warehouse or job site to the office or managerial staff, all jobs have some inherent risks for injury. We offer services for all components of business operations from the labor job to the desk job. Our services include:
- Job task analyses
- Worksite assessments
- Annual musculoskeletal screening
- Prevention screenings
- Individual and/or group training sessions
- New hire training
- Return to work (reintegration) assessments and/or training.
What Is Ergonomics
Ergonomics is the scientific study of people at work. This involves fitting the JOB to the WORKER and this is accomplished by evaluating the biomechanical, physiological and cognitive effects of work. The purpose of ergonomics is to reduce the strain on the body, more specifically the muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints. By reducing the stresses on the body, injuries due to overuse, improper or suboptimal posture, repetitive or sustained tasks and positions can be reduced or eliminated. Ergonomics is accomplished by properly designing tasks, displays, tools, lighting, work spaces and equipment to fit the employee’s physical abilities and limitations.
Risk Factors
Work related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMDs) include pain that is associated with the muscles, bones, joints, ligaments, and tendons for the body. There are risk factors that can lead to musculoskeletal (MSK) pain. Risk factors that can lead to MSK pain can come from the work environment, repetitive or sustained postures, knowledge gap, and physical limitations in flexibility, stability, strength or endurance.
The changes that take place to a workers’ body throughout their career is often overlooked. The normal aging process is known to have an effect strength, flexibility and power. The work environment needs to be considered when evaluating the physical changes that occur over time. There are strategies to minimize the risk factors that contribute to WRMDs. By assessing and addressing the changes throughout a workers’ career can decrease their risk of MSK related pain. Many problems associated with MSK pain are preventable!
Our Philosophy
Our approach is unique! To reduce pain and injuries related to the musculoskeletal system the root cause must be addressed. We take a holistic approach to include all potential variables. We not only look at the job and workstation, but also the worker. We perform individualized musculoskeletal (MSK) assessments, provide behavior modification strategies, and education regarding the impact of the stresses placed on the body. The MSK assessment will identify any limitations in flexibility, stability or strength. Following the assessment, an individualized MSK wellness/prevention program is recommended. Preventing musculoskeletal pain ultimately can decrease injuries and improve quality of life. Beyond the MSK assessment we focus in on making connections, establishing relationships, and providing education tailored to the specific ergonomics of the worker and their job tasks. We emphasize changing behaviors related to habits at work and home. We empower the worker to implement these changes within their daily life and existing work space. The combination of individualized flexibility and strengthening programs, behavior modification and the increased awareness of one’s body and work space promotes wellness and reduces work-related pain. Wellness programs for employees can increase productivity, reduce time out of work, and reduce medical costs. This is what makes us unique:
- Musculoskeletal assessments
- Musculoskeletal wellness and prevention programs
- Behavior modification strategies
- Industry specific education
- Strategies that can be implemented immediately
Ergonomics Program Goals
Who doesn’t want to feel better? Our ergonomics program will be individualized to meet your needs. We want to develop a wellness and prevention package that is sustainable and employee owned. This provides a cultural shift towards a healthier work place. We offer unparalleled service, availability and responsiveness.
Benefits of an Ergonomics program:
- Employee and employer education
- Identify risk factors related to MSK related pain
- Provide industry/worker specific recommendations
- Reduce risk factors associated to MSK disorders
- Prevent injuries before they occur
- Instill a culture of wellness and prevention
- Reduce MSK related injuries
- Reduce time out of work
- Increase productivity
- Reduce medical costs