Employee Manual 2023 - Flipbook - Page 105
Principles of Ergonomics
Ergonomics is the science of preventing injuries that result from the way we use our bodies to do
work. Applying these principles to the workplace and your work methods can improve the quality
and efficiency of operations as well as your well-being.
Keep Everything Within Easy Reach
An easy way to make your work area more user-friendly is to keep products, parts and tools that
are frequently needed within easy reach. Long reaches often cause you to twist, bend and strain,
which in turn makes work more difficult.
Work at Proper Heights
A mismatch in heights between employees and the work that they are doing leads to poor posture
and unnecessary stress. Generally, work should be done at elbow height, whether sitting or
standing.
Reduce Excessive Forces
Anything that you can do to minimize the exertion required to do your task will make it more userfriendly. Excessive forces load the muscles, creating a potential for fatigue and injury. In general,
power grips are less stressful than pinch grips. Design tools and equipment to allow the full use of
the hand grip.
Work in Good Posture
Use tools, equipment and workstation layouts that allow you to work in the best possible posture.
Good posture reduces the stress on your body and makes it easier for you to do your job.
• Maintain straight wrists.
• Keep arms low and elbows next to your body.
• Maintain the natural curve of the back.
Reduce Excessive Repetition
Minimizing the number of motions required to do a task can reduce the wear and tear on your
body. Let the tool or machine do the work.
Minimize Fatigue
The problems of overload and general weariness can be minimized in several ways: vary your
tasks, get help where practical, rotate tasks and take short stretch breaks throughout your shift.
Minimize Direct Pressure
Direct pressure or “contact stress” is a common issue in some workstations. In addition to being
uncomfortable, it can inhibit nerve function and blood flow. Pad surfaces subject to prolonged or
frequent contact.
Provide Adjustability and Change of Posture
Adjustability makes it easier to customize your workstation to fit your needs. Thus, adjustability can
help you to maintain better heights and reaches and to avoid pressure points and awkward
City of Plymouth Employee manual - Page 105 – March 2023
