The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)has published
a Health Hazard Evaluation Report (HHE) on ergonomic evaluation at a steel
grating manufacturing plant. NIOSH investigators observed that most employees
are exposed to risk factors for developing WMSDs due to awkward postures,
forceful exertions, and repetitive motions. These included prying materials
loose with pry bars, squatting and bending over at the waist and back to
maneuver heavy materials, reaching at or above shoulder height, and
manipulating material using awkward shoulder and wrist postures. Employees in
the barline, welding, and saw areas are exposed to a combination of risk
factors for WMSDs in the upper extremities and back due to awkward postures,
forceful exertions, and repetitive motions. Review of injury and illness
records show lost workdays for MSDs and higher incidence rates of nonfatal
injury and illness at the plant than in the same type of facilities nationally.
Recommendations for reducing the risk of WMSDs are included in this report,
such as the use of adjustable tables and improved workplace design.

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AplusA-online.de - Source: National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health