Ergonomics

ERGONOMICS

Ergonomics is the practice of fitting the job to the individual, which can help prevent work-related musculoskeletal injuries. Examples of musculoskeletal injuries include carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, and lower back pain. The goal of Union College’s ergonomics program is to help departments and employees identify risk factors that can contribute to the development of work-related musculoskeletal injuries and determine solutions to eliminate or reduce these risk factors.

Risk factors

Risk factors for the development of musculoskeletal injuries include, but are not limited to, awkward postures, repetitive tasks, and/or forceful exertions. These types of injuries are typically cumulative; since they develop over time, rather than resulting from a single event.

Musculoskeletal injuries can be prevented by evaluating work tasks that involve these risk factors and finding solutions to better fit the job to the person. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) website covers these risk factors as well as other contributing factors in greater detail, along with advice for how to reduce or limit these risk factors.

Ergonomic Assessment

Before requesting an assessment of your work area, please review and complete the following LinkedIn Learning course: Ergonomics 101.

After making adjustments to your work area based on the course recommendations, if you still feel an assessment is required, please complete and submit an Ergonomic Assessment Request Form.

You will be contacted by EHS to schedule an assessment, which will be completed by a Marsh Advisory consultant, or EHS, depending on your information provided in the form.