Question 1

What are the biggest ergonomic hazards I should look for in my workplace?

Accepted Answer

The three most common ergonomic hazards are non-neutral postures/movements, repetition (or the opposite, one prolonged position) and force. These are the greatest causal factors for musculoskeletal
injury. It should be noted that most people have good tolerance to acceptable forces and repetition, provided that these occur with good body positioning. Therefore, it’s critical to design work tasks and workspaces that ensure neutral body postures.

Question 2

What is the best way to improve ergonomic working conditions?

Accepted Answer

In the hierarchy of ergonomic controls, engineering out the hazard and having the right tools for the job are the optimal solutions. HOWEVER, ergonomics is a synergy between the environment and the person. Good body mechanics, stretching and appropriate work recovery cycles are vital aspects of a
well-rounded ergonomics program.

Question 3

Is annual ergonomics training a good idea?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Keep in mind that on the continuum of good-better-best, annual training is good, especially if the training content contains strategies that individuals can easily apply to their work areas. A better approach is shorter, targeted trainings on a quarterly basis to keep ergonomic best practices front and
center. Adults often need more frequent messages in order for them to gain traction and turn it into action. A best practices approach would also have a circle-back aspect such as a check-in with an area leader to ensure concepts are being applied and identify roadblocks to successful applications of
principles are removed.

Question 4

Our offices are dated and there’s no budget in the foreseeable future for a remodel. Are there things
we can do to improve the comfort and wellness of our employees?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! This is where small adjustments can make a world of difference. Like they say in football, it’s a game of inches. Seemingly small changes in heights and reaches, along with equipment adjustments, and perhaps different peripherals can be game changers!

Question 5

I’m frustrated. An employee came to me and told me they needed a leave of absence for carpal tunnel
surgery. I didn’t even know they were having issues. What could I do differently to prevent this from
occurring again?

Accepted Answer

That’s frustrating for sure, and very unfortunate for your employee. You may want to survey other employees in the area to determine if there are others experiencing similar discomforts. An ergonomic evaluation of the area might be wise. Also, take a hard look at how the vital benefit of early reporting is

communicated. Could there be an opportunity for improvement? Keep in mind that when an employee reports a discomfort, how you respond is vital. If the employee feels supported, understood and has the confidence that action will be taken to remove or decrease injury risk, that will be conveyed to other
employees through the grapevine. The converse is also true. Make the injury reporting and follow-up are good experience. Be great at communicating. Build trust, do the right thing. Without a doubt, this will be noted.

Question 6

We’ve done ergonomics training and made some improvements. What’s next?

Accepted Answer

We’ve done ergonomics training and made some improvements. What’s next?

Question 7

Why Choose Optima?

Accepted Answer

Optima has years of experience creating ergonomic solutions on a continuum from small organizations to large global tech manufacturing. We understand cross-cultural communication, regional regulations and industry specific standards such as Semi S8. But more importantly, we understand that every organization is unique, not only in its processes, but in its leadership philosophy and internal
capabilities. Optima meets you where you’re at and creates an improvement plan to maximize employee wellness and safety and productivity.

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