Would You Be Ready for an Ergonomics Standard?

Last month we briefly discussed Ergonomics, and the impact in the workplace. Today, we are following up with some information about potential standards in the works that help you navigate through this risk channel. When OSHA detailed their new focus on recordkeeping, safety analysts began wondering if an ergonomic standard may be in the works.  Although, nothing has been said explicitly, an ergonomic standard would be inline with OSHA’s purpose.  Many studies have shown that reducing injuries and incidents in the work place will require employers to realize the benefit of ergonomics.

Make the Case

• OSHA has created a DART rate for musculoskeletal disorders.  The recordkeeping investigation procedures details that if necessary an OSHA investigator will use s separate DART rate to calculate these specific type of injuries.
• The interview questions that will be asked of employees focus on pains that they did not report, but used over the counter products for instead.  This is common of muscle pains.
• Ergonomic injuries are often disconnected from workers compensation because it is often hard for employees to figure out when or how the injury actually occurred.  An essential part of the workers compensation process is being injured by accident.

However, for most employers the question whether or when a particular standard is coming is not as important as how much it will take to obtain compliance.  Although, it is impossible to know the particular details of an ergonomic standard until it is officially proposed.  There are aspects that you can bet will be covered by the standard.

• PPE.  You can definitely count on there being specified personal protective equipment for an ergonomic standard.  More than likely, the PPE for an ergonomic standard would revolve around back support, knee support, and wrist support.  So, to stay ahead of the curve, you should consider PPE that facilitates lower back support which is durable, promotes proper lifting, and easy to use.  Also, consider knee pads that relieve the stress that repetitive bending, squatting, and lifting can have on knees.  Knee support pads should be comfortable and stretchable.  Wrist protection should reduce median nerve pressure, adjustable and comfortable.  Depending on your type of business you should also consider anti-vibration gloves and elbow supports.
• Proper Body Mechanics.  After you look at the equipment needed to promote ergonomics, you should focus on body mechanics and positioning.  These are the tools that could require companies to change procedure to incorporate proper lifting techniques.
• Changing the Culture.  Finally, you can bet that an ergonomic standard would promote better reporting of musculoskeletal injuries.  Ways to track these injuries, methods for employees to report these injuries, and penalties for employers that discourage workers from reporting these injuries are pretty much expected in such a standard.

Even though an ergonomic standard has not been proposed there are several factors that point to the possibility.  As an employer, it is better to proactive when it comes to compliance.  Start looking at a ways to incorporate ergonomics today, so you can be in compliance for tomorrow.

References:

US Dept of Labor: OSHA Notice “Injury and Illness Recordkeeping National Emphasis Program;” http://www.osha.gov/OshDoc/Directive_pdf/CPL_02_09-08.pdf