Ergonomic Assessments Lecture Notes

Introduction

Focus: Ergonomic assessments for ergonomics and Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSD)

Initial Interviews
- Interview employer/contractor/services for job description
- Interview the client/worker to build an occupational profile
  - Understand work history, typical workday, symptom causes, and frequency
  - Decide on necessary measurements (range of motion, muscle testing, sensation, etc.)
Materials Needed
- Tape measure
- Camera
- Goniometer
- Ruler
- Checklist
- Templates
- Educational materials (pamphlets, etc.)

Observation
- Observe the person performing their job
- Be aware of potential behavior changes due to the observation
- Stay for 30 minutes to an hour for accurate assessment
- Understand responsibilities, roles, typical day, and worst day
- Assess the workstation setup, tool placement, and work environment
  - Lighting, temperature, noise level, competitive or friendly environment
Relating Observations to the Worker (P)
- Use anthropometric measurements to check workstation appropriateness
- Consider psychosocial issues (e.g., depression, anxiety) affecting work performance

Measure body length, height, knee height, elbow height, eye level, torso dimensions
Relate measurements to workstation setup
Adapt tools and environment based on measurements

Goal Setting for Reports
- Audience: Employer and worker
- Goals should be specific, measurable, achievable, and realistic
- Convince the employer that changes will improve work performance and be cost-effective
- Avoid unrealistic goals (e.g., worker only performing 50% of job)
Training in goal writing will be provided during the OT curriculum

Ergonomic assessments involve systematic steps: interviews, onsite observations, measurements, and reporting
Important to understand and measure the work environment and the worker's interaction with it
Goal setting is crucial and must be framed in an employer-friendly manner