SRITARAN A/L BALAKRISHNAN

(UNITEN)
BACHELOR OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
(24/2/2020 – 15/5/2020)
 ERGONOMICS

The study of interaction between the worker

and the process at the workplace.

Helps the operator work most efficiently.

Example:
Ergonomically designed tool is one that allows people to do their
appointed tasks in the most efficient way. The tool can be designed
to avoid exposing the operator to physical load, noise, vibration,
and dust.
 Ergonomics looks at:

 Work station
 Tools
 Motions
 Physical condition
 Physical limitations
 Environment
 BENEFITS OF ERGONOMICS

QUALITY OF LIFE JOB SATISFACTION

COMFORT

REDUCE STRESS &

FATIGUE IMPROVED SAFETY
 ERGONOMIC INJURIES
Cumulative Trauma Disorders (CTDs):

• Called repetitive stress injury

• Work-related musculoskeletal impairments caused by repetitive and
straining motions.
• Injuries that affect upper body nerves, tendons, tendon sheaths and muscles
Examples:
Tendinitis, Tenosynovitis Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Shoulder, Neck, Back, and
Leg Discomforts.

Cumulative=Indicates the injuries develop gradually

Trauma=Indicates body injury from mechanical stress
Disorders=Physical ailments / abnormal conditions
Musculoskeletal Disorders(MSD):
 
 Called “repetitive motion injury”, “repetitive stress injury”, “overuse injury”
 Injuries that affect muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves and discs.
 Injuries can develop when the same muscles are used repetitively, or for a
long time without adequate rest.

Examples:
Back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis and tenosynovitis, Rotator cuff
injuries (affects the shoulder),Epicondylitis (affects the elbow),Trigger
finger,Muscle strains and low back injuries
 SYMPTOMS

Dull, aching sensation Pain

Discomfort with movements Tingling

Tenderness to the touch Cramping

Burning sensation Stiffness

 WORKPLACE RISK FACTORS
 Repetitive motions  Inappropriate tools

 Fixed / awkward postures  Continuous contact

 Vibration  Restricted clearance

 Force  Improper seating/support

 Twisting / bending  Bad body mechanics

 Elevation of elbows  In-adjustable equipment

 Lifting
 ENGINEERING CONTROLS

 Preferred method

 Work station design

 Tool design

 Equipment design
 WORK STATION REDESIGN

Reduce static loading Provide seating / support

Raise / lower working height Improve material orientation

Remove hard / sharp edges Improve layout

Provide mechanical advantages

Insulate heat / cold

“AN OUNCE OF PREVENTION IS WORTH A
POUND OF CURE”

THANK YOU