Industrial Ergonomics Program Management

Solution

The site EHS manager contacted TRC to provide an experienced employee with relevant ergonomic certifications to assist. TRC provided implementation and management of a comprehensive sitewide ergonomics program. Qualitative baseline evaluations were conducted for over 125 tasks and processes occurring in all areas of the facility. Each task was categorized as “low,” “medium” or “high” for ergonomic risk, taking into consideration factors such as force, posture, frequency and duration. The results of the evaluations were reviewed, and risk priority ratings were generated. Using the ratings, comprehensive evaluations were then conducted in order of prioritized risk.

Evaluations Included:

• Interviewing operators and supervisors
•  Collecting and analyzing video and photographs of
  operations
• Conducting measurements of forces, weights and
  distances using specialized ergonomic
  evaluation analytical tools and devices
• Utilizing of a variety of quantitative analysis tools to
  generate ergonomic risk scores
• Evaluating existing equipment design
• Providing input on purchase or install of new
  equipment to reduce ergonomic risk
• Reducing and eliminating unnecessary,
  repetitive and/or redundant tasks

Following implementation of controls and improvements, TRC provided follow-up assessments to verify and document risk reduction.