Ergonomics And The Workplace
*This article will cover what is Ergonomics, related issues & signs – symptoms. Prevention & protection against hazards in next article.
WHAT IS ERGONOMICS AT WORK?
There’s been a lot of talk in recent years about “Ergonomics”. Ergonomics is the study of the relationship between people and their work environments, which is very important to both health and safety.
Good ergonomics adapt the job to fit the person rather than forcing the person to fit the job. In an ergonomic workplace, tasks and tools are designed to fit individual capabilities and limitations so people can do their jobs without being injured.
Ergonomics has emerged as a hot issue because it shows the link between certain types of injuries and the ways in which people perform their jobs.
WHAT ARE ERGONOMIC ISSUES?
The study of ergonomics has helped to identify what types of positions and movements can cause physical pain and injury, as well as ways to prevent these problems.
After all, ergonomics affects each of us personally. We’re the ones who get aches and pains when tasks or tools have poor ergonomic design.
Ergonomic issues can be associated with a wide range of concerns including the physical design of workstations, workspaces, the working environment, tools, vehicles, computer programs and plant. It can also involve cognitive processes such as those involved with workload, decision making, skilled performance and stress.
Ergonomic injuries may be referred to as Repetitive Stress Injuries (RSIs), Repetitive Motion Injuries (RMIs), Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs), Cumulative Trauma Disorders (CTDs), or Cumulative Trauma Injuries (CTIs).
What are the signs and symptoms of an Ergonomic Injury or MSD?
- Pain in the fingers, wrists, or other parts of the body: may include a dull aching pain, a sharp stabbing pain, or even a burning sensation
- Tingling or numbness, particularly in the hands or fingers
- Swelling, inflammation, or joint stiffness
- Loss of muscle function or weakness
- Discomfort or pain in the shoulders, neck, or upper or lower back
- Extremities turning white or feeling unusually cold
- General feeling of muscle tightness, cramping, or discomfort
- Clumsiness or loss of coordination
- Range of motion loss
- Discomfort when making certain movements
“Ergonomics is not the problem”
– it is the Solution!
If you experience any of these symptoms it’s important you consider them.
Reach out to us at –
Pooja Physiotherapy & Health Care Center
Blk 77 Indus road #01-521S’160077
Call now@ 6384 5452 or Whatsapp@ 8322 3371 or
drop an email at info@physiopooja.com.sg
