Class description

Ergonomics is just as important to small businesses as it is to major corporations. In fact, understanding and using best ergonomics practices can make a substantial economic difference for all business owners. 43 cents of every dollar going to workers’ compensation claims in our state is for work-related non-traumatic musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) of the back, shoulder, elbow, hand, wrist and knee.*

This 2-day program is being offered to all who have a vested interest in Washington State businesses: attendees will gain a working knowledge of occupational musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), the risk factors for these injuries, and learn some ready-to-use hazard recognition and assessment tools to help find solutions. Discover how prevention and early intervention techniques will pay off in the long run by increasing productivity and decreasing injuries, time-loss, and compensable claims. This course will provide training from ergonomics basics up to more in-depth guidance to aid participants in the management decision-making processes concerning task analysis and the evaluation of resources available to prevent and solve problems associated with MSDs. Emerging risks associated with sitting disease, handheld devices, call-in centers, laboratory and agricultural work will be discussed.

Dr. Peter Johnson, course director, recently completed research on low back pain among trucking industry workers, and interventions to prevent these injuries. Read about his research and get a sneak peak of what this course has in store.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

  • Define ergonomics and understand the importance of fitting the task to the person 
  • Recognize the importance of differences in body sizes 
  • List common work-related MSDs and recognize associated risk factors
  • Assess how to choose the right tool for the task
  • Design a work station to fit the worker and learn how to make modifications to account for differences in body types
  • Identify 3 ergonomics assessment tools for use in the workplace
  • Make informed decisions concerning training, job modification and importance of prevention by design
  • Know the resources that are available to business owners through the Department of Labor and Industries.

INTENDED AUDIENCE

Small business managers and owners with workers involved in: manufacturing, office work, materials management, food service, health care, call-in centers, grocery handling, etc.; human resource professionals, ergonomists, industrial hygienists, safety and health professionals, primary care professionals, physical and occupational therapists, safety committee members, risk managers, procurement staff, equipment design professionals

 

*Washington Labor & Industries Technical Report 40-12-2015-a, Feb. 2015