How to utilize an SAP alongside an Ergonomics Program
The Safety Action Plan (SAP) is an essential part of any safety program, so how can we utilize it effectively alongside your ergonomic plan. To best understand how, we need to know that the safety action plan outlines the safety policies and procedures of a workplace. It focuses on the measures for preventing occupational injuries and illnesses. This plan is reviewed and updated regularly to ensure that it remains effective and relevant.
As we know, ergonomic injuries are primarily cumulative in nature and so the need to focus on the work demands and how they associate with human capabilities can be challenging. An ergonomics consultant will be able to identify the at-risk areas, tasks, departments, etc. of your business but the need to put these into action is key. It is important to keep a log of risk findings and make them into a manageable actionable list.
Develop the policies and procedures necessary for successful continued completion of action items. Safety is a process and not a project, so focus on the entire process of implementation through a continuous improvement process: plan, do, check, & act. Develop policies and procedures to address the process. A frequent issue with a project approach is that once the project comes to completion, the implementation and reiteration are missing from the picture. One such example might be the creation of a tool (engineering control) to reduce force and awkward postures related to a task. Now if the tool does not have a maintenance program, or the operators are not trained to use the tool, or the tool just isn’t refined, it won’t be used and the control is now worth nothing. So, use a systematic approach to ergonomic solutions. Even with administrative controls and PPE. Generally, elimination controls are best as then you can set it and forget it!
Conduct a ergonomics assessments with a well-qualified individuals. Look for experienced certified professional ergonomic specialists that understand what works and does not work in your industry. Do not rely on ergonomic tracking software without a specialist behind the tool as well.
Both the safety action plan and ergonomics program require training programs to be effective. Train employees on the policies and procedures outlined in the safety action plan and provide them with the knowledge and skills needed to work safely. Also train employees on ergonomic principles such as proper lifting techniques and biomechanics to have them participate in ongoing solutions.
Regularly review and update both the safety action plan and ergonomics program to ensure they remain effective. Conduct regular hazard assessments to identify new hazards or changes in existing hazards, and update policies and procedures accordingly. Similarly, conduct regular ergonomic assessments to ensure that the job demands remain ideal for worker health and safety.
Utilizing a safety action plan and ergonomics program together is a powerful way to promote a workplace safety. By identifying potential ergonomic hazards, developing ongoing policies and processes, involving employees in ergonomics training, and regularly reviewing and updating these programs, employers can create a work environment that prioritizes employee health and safety.