Ergonomic Elimination Controls
Ergonomic elimination controls are the ideal solution for the mitigation of ergonomic related risk. They measures designed to eliminate risks of MSDs by modifying the work environment, workstations, and equipment. These types of controls even beat out engineering controls which tend to come with a heavy price tag. Although elimination is usual a vision to which a long-term solution is sought for. Various other types of inferior controls (i.e. administrative) are usually implemented in the interim.
Ergonomic controls focus on optimizing the workspace to reduce stress on the body, improving posture, and reducing the risk of injury. The aim is to eliminate or reduce the root causes of MSDs, such as awkward postures, repetitive motions, and excessive force. Elimination based controls usually come along the lines of automation, robotics, or a high-tech solution.
One example would be the inspection of a water tower. The frequent climbing task to inspect the top of the top areas can be the most difficult duty for agricultural companies. One such elimination control involved the use of drones to perform the inspections eliminating the need to frequently climb the tower ladders, and also made the task quicker saving man hours and safer, saving on worker’s compensation rates.
The payoff can be significant when implementing elimination controls early on. Unfortunately, this is not always the case as they end up as the long-term final solution. So, having an experienced ergonomic specialist provide both a cost analysis early on, as well as effective elimination controls right off the bat, is the way to go.
Other controls can progressively and in certain cases be the only solution available. This is why employers also use ergonomic tools and equipment and other devices that are designed to reduce job demand in certain cases. Engineering controls can be tools are designed with the user in mind, with features that reduce the risk of the culmination of a stress related injury. Training and education are also essential components of ergonomic elimination controls. Such examples of those include education on proper lifting techniques, safe work practices, and the importance of taking breaks to prevent MSDs. Administrative controls can be in the form of training sessions, posters, and other educational materials.
Final assessments and evaluations of the controls should always be conducted to ensure that the ergonomic elimination controls are effective. This also can be used to show management the improvement with quantitative or qualitative measures. Quantitative measures involve reviewing the work environment, equipment, and tools to deliver a before and after measure. This ongoing evaluation process jives with OSHA regulations and is part of a safety action plan to ensure that the workplace remains safe and healthy for employees.
Ergonomic elimination controls are best and if a business can find the right ergonomic specialist to both provide insight on the cost and effectiveness of these types of solutions, don’t hesitate. By focusing on optimizing the workspace and equipment to reduce the risk of MSDs, employers can promote the well-being of their employees and improve productivity. By conducting regular assessments and evaluations, employers can create a safe and healthy work environment for all employees.