Ergonomics

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Simple wooden A-frame makes work more comfortable and efficient

In-line tool used on a horizontal surface makes the wrist and arm more comfortable

Team lifting reduces the workload

Lift-assist device eliminates manual handling

Scissors lift provides a portable, height-adjustable workstation

Parts storage is tilted for easy access and conveniencePublishing Information
Easy Ergonomics, A Practical Approach for Improving the Workplace was developed by the Education and Training Unit, Cal/OSHA Consultation Service, California Department of Industrial Relations. The document was prepared for publication by the staff of the Publications Division/CDE Press, California Department of Education. It was distributed under the provisions of the LibraryDistribution Act and Government Code Section 11096. Published 1999 by the California Department of Industrial Relations

A Practical Approach for Improving the Workplace

California Department of Industrial Relations Cal/OSHA Consultation Service Education and Training Unit

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About This Booklet
This booklet offers a simple, hands-on approach to workplace ergonomics that can workregardless of the size of your organization. It is designed for owners, supervisors, and employees as they work toward improving their workplace. The booklet is divided into four sections: I. How Ergonomics Can Help. Introduces you to ergonomics, describes the benefits of taking a proactive approach, and illustrates some practical workplace improvements made by employers and employees inCalifornia. II. Ergonomics and Your Workplace. Gives a description of factors that may contribute to problems in work tasks. Also provides a simple method to help you address ergonomics issues in your workplace. III. Improving Your Workplace. Shows examples of ergonomic improvements. Offers suggestions to help set priorities, make informed choices, and determine whether your improvements are workingeffectively. IV. Resources. Includes a problem-solving exercise. Presents basic information on musculoskeletal disorders, suggestions for getting help from a health care provider, and ergonomics references for further reading (including case studies and Internet web sites). Note: This booklet does not cover ergonomics for the office environment (e.g., the use of video display terminals) orfor construction or field agriculture. For a reference on office ergonomics, contact Cal/OSHA Consultation Service (1-800-963-9424) and ask for a copy of: Four-Step Ergonomics Program for Employers with Video Display Terminal (VDT) Operators. State of California, Department of Industrial Relations, Division of Occupational Safety and Health, Education and Training Unit, 1997. For an additionalreference on health issues related to the use of computers in the workplace, see the Resources section, page 79. The information in this booklet is intended to provide general guidance. There may be instances in which workplace issues are more complex than those presented here.You may need the advice of an ergonomics consultant or other outside experts. The content is intended to providecurrent information about workplace ergonomics. The field of ergonomics is dynamic, and new information is constantly being developed. Cal/OSHA will periodically update this publication to reflect changes. NO ONE IS REQUIRED TO USE THE INFORMATION IN THIS BOOKLET. THIS BOOKLET IS NOT INTENDED TO PROVIDE EMPLOYERS WITH INFORMATION ON HOW TO COMPLY WITH CAL/OSHA REGULATIONS.

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Contents

I.How Ergonomics Can Help ........................................................... 1 A Proactive Approach to Problem Solving ...............................................3 II. Ergonomics and Your Workplace .................................................. 7 Workplace Contributing Factors ................................................................9 Ergonomics Job Analysis Methods...