Ergonomic Improvements
Ergonomic improvements are changes made to better match the demands of a job with the capabilities of the workers performing it. Implementing these improvements can reduce physical strain, eliminate unnecessary movements, lower injury rates and workers’ compensation costs, and help decrease employee turnover.
Hierarchy of Controls (HOC)
The effectiveness of any ergonomic strategy depends on employee compliance. A prioritized Hierarchy of Controls (HOC) is traditionally used to implement effective and feasible measures to protect workers. The HOC, as described in ANSI/ASSP Z10, Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems, includes six strategies that fall into two categories:
- Hazard-focused strategies: Address the hazard itself.
- Behavior-focused strategies: Influence worker behaviors to reduce exposure.
1. Elimination
The most effective solution is to completely remove the hazard. For example, eliminating the need to lift, push, pull, or carry heavy loads. While sometimes unavoidable, minimizing tasks that require awkward postures, overreaching, or overexertion is ideal.
2. Substitution
If elimination is not possible, replace the hazard with a less hazardous option. For instance, using smaller, lighter containers instead of large, heavy ones.
3. Engineering Controls
Redesign or modify equipment, tools, or processes to reduce risk. For example, changing procedures that involve heavy lifting or carrying to make them safer.
4. Warnings
Warnings alert workers to potential hazards and may be visual, audible, or tactile.
- Visual: Signs, labels, tags, or lights
- Audible: Alarms, bells, sirens, or announcement systems
- Tactile: Vibrating devices or air fans
5. Work Practice Controls
These focus on creating safer behaviors and practices through written policies, rules, supervision, and training. Supervisors must monitor employees regularly to ensure compliance. These controls are effective only when workers consistently follow proper procedures.
6. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
PPE provides a barrier between the worker and the hazard. Common examples include knee pads for carpet installers or gloves for handling rough materials. PPE is often the most frequently used strategy but is considered less effective than hazard-focused controls.
Interim Measures
When higher-level controls are not immediately feasible, lower-priority methods can serve as temporary protection until a permanent solution is implemented. Interim measures often combine multiple strategies to reduce risk. According to OSHA, feasible temporary controls should always be used if higher-level solutions cannot yet be applied.