Ergonomics Flashcards
What is ergonomics?
Study of work performance with emphasis on keeping workers safe and productive.
What is anthropometry?
Science of measurement of the human body.
What is ‘reach’?
Sphere around worker that can be touched by worker at all points without moving body from starting point.
Describe the three types of reach.
- Vertical reach: Area person can reach from top to bottom.
- Horizontal reach: Area that person can reach from front to back.
- Visual reach: Area worker can comfortably see.
Name and describe the four zones / areas of ‘horizontal reach’?
- Normal work distance: Precision work.
- Extended working distance: Frequently used tools.
- Max work distance: Infrequently used tools.
- Most efficient workspace.
Describe the eight principles of ergonomic posture.
- Neutral as possible.
- Not static.
- Avoid forward flexion of neck.
- Upper arms close to body.
- Avoid lifting arms overhead.
- Avoid extreme ranges of motion + awkward / painful postures.
- Back support should always be provided.
- Place body parts in positions of greatest strength.
Explain the difference between job demands and worker abilities.
- Job demands: Specific requirements of task.
2. Worker abilities: Person’s capacities / expertise in executing job demands.
Describe the three categories of psychosocial factors.
- Factors associated with work environment.
- Factors associated with extra-work environment.
- Individual worker characteristics (genetic factors, acquired aspects e.g. social class + culture & disposition).
What are the six psychosocial factors associated with work environment?
- Characteristics of job.
- Organizational structure.
- Interpersonal relationships.
- Temporal aspects.
- Financial / economic aspects.
- Community aspects.
What is the psychosocial factors related to musculoskeletal disorders?
- Job satisfaction.
- Intensified workload.
- Monotonous work.
- Job control.
- Social support.
What are the eight factors to consider in the physical work environment?
- Vibration.
- Sound.
- Lighting.
- Structural features (ground characteristics, equipment + temp.)
- Chemicals and toxins.
- Air quality.
- Allergies.
- Water quality.
What are the three lifting techniques?
- Stoop lift.
- Squat lift.
- Semi-squat lift.
What are the eight lifting principles?
- Keep load close.
- Secure hand grip.
- Maintain a degree of lumbar lordosis at initiation and during the lift.
- Use lifting technique that is most application to situation.
- When lifting, do as much as possible in the sagittal plane.
- Lift slowly.
- Ensure proper footing.
- Place load between feet (place less strain on lumbar spine).
On the basis of what do you choose type of lift?
- Client factors.
2. Workload (weight + frequency).
What are the 10 principles of seating?
- Maintain lumbar lordosis
- Maintain natural spinal curvatures by aligning shoulders over the hips and head over the shoulders.
- Full back support in the upper back, thoracic spine and sacrum.
- Avoid slouching.
- Legs must be supported (feet firmly on floor).
- Seat pan must not be too deep.
- Maintain neutral postures of head to reduce strain
- Keep arms as close to trunk as possible to reduce musculoskeletal stress.
- Maintain approximately 90 degree angles at hips, knees and ankles.
- Move often.
