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Refresh Your Ergonomics Process
Since October is National Ergonomics Month, this is a good time to reflect upon your ergonomics
processes. Take some time to review the critical elements of your processes and identify those areas
that have seen significant changes.
Have key leaders moved within the company?
Have new initiatives been introduced?
Have there been changes to your work force, products or process?
Leadership commitment is a critical element of a sound ergonomics process. If leadership has recently
changed, it’s important that the new leaders are familiar with the ergonomics processes and benefits in
order to secure management support. Leadership needs to understand how the ergonomics processes can impact
each of the key metrics used to gauge company performance. They should also express their commitment to the
ergonomics processes though policy letters or other methods common within the company.
The increased focus on programs such as lean manufacturing and six sigma might have introduced new methods
or terms into the language of the operation. Chances are good that some of these initiatives have been
introduced into your workplace within the last few years. Make sure training materials for your ergonomics
processes have been updated to reflect these new terms and methods of measurement. For example, how might the
six sigma approach of Y=f(X) (outcome is a function of inputs) be applied to the ergonomics process?
Other variables that could affect your ergonomics processes might include new regulations or labor
agreements. Are your processes up to date with performance measures used by OHSA?
It’s also important to make sure your program can manage changes that can occur in the normal course of
business. Some questions to ask yourself as you review your process include:
How are ergonomic issues identified within your process? Are the right people participating in the
identification and resolution of ergonomics issues?
Has the make-up of the workforce, the product mix or process at your facility changed?
Are new or different products and processes being introduced into your facility?
Have jobs been re-balanced or new technology introduced to accommodate changes in the work environments?
During National Ergonomics Month, take the time to review and update your ergonomics processes.
A sample checklist is attached to this month’s Tip to help you
determine if there are any areas in your process that need some focus or change. The reduced injuries, increased
productivity, improved quality and improved employee morale that can result from your efforts may help to make
your operation more competitive in today’s market!
For additional information and resources on National Ergonomics Month (NEM) visit the NEM website at
http://hfesnem.org.