Ergonomic Job Analysis: A Structured Approach for Identifying Risk Factors Associated with Overexertion Injuries and Disorders

Abstract

Overexertion injuries and disorders, such as low back pain, tendonitis, and carpal tunnel syndrome, are the leading cause of work-related disabilities and Workers' Compensation costs in the United States and other industrialized nations. These injuries and disorders have been associated with six generic categories of ergonomic risk factors which are found in a broad spectrum of manufacturing and service jobs: 1) forceful exertions, 2) awkward work postures, 3) localized contact stresses, 4) whole-body or segmental vibration, 5) temperature extremes, and 6) repetitive motions or prolonged activities. Once recognized and evaluated, ergonomic principles can be applied to reduce exposures to these risk factors as part of a comprehensive program to control over-exertion injuries.

A structured job analysis procedure has been developed to assist occupational health and safety professionals in the recognition and evaluation of exposures to ergonomic stresses in the workplace. This procedure is based on systems safety analysis techniques and utilizes a pro-active team approach to develop a detailed and open-ended evaluation of facilities, equipment, tools, processes, and work methods to recognize and evaluate specific work activities associated with potentially harmful exposures to generic risk factors. Keyserling, W.M.; Armstrong, T.J.; Punnett, L.: Ergonomic Job Analysis: A Structured Approach for Identifying Risk Factors Associated with Overexertion Injuries and Disorders.