Worksite International Blog

Are you taking a transactional approach to ergonomics?

Let me explain. 

Many employers take a transactional approach to their ergonomics program, buying ergonomics services as needed in reaction to a situation or employee concern. It is the most common way employers consume ergonomics.

What the Experts Say

The pandemic is unfortunately here to stay for at least two more years says Toolie Garner, a remote leadership expert. Toolie and I spoke recently where she indicated it will literally take the entire world getting vaccinated before the pandemic slows. New variants will continue to emerge and air travel makes it easy for the virus variants to spread globally.

Are You a Goal Setter? 

Goals are meaningless without a plan that sets out how you will achieve them. If you want to achieve a certain goal, then you must build a path toward that goal. Goal-setting helps to prioritize your workload, build good habits so you can make everyday count. This blog focuses on two methods to achieve your goals in 2022. 

About SEFA

Up until a few months ago, I had not heard of SEFA. It just wasn’t on my radar. But now it is! As a certified professional ergonomist with a focus on laboratory ergonomics over the last several decades, I’m grateful to become acquainted with this unique association.

Having served on the BIFMA G1-2022 (pending approval) committee, and my love of laboratory science, I was keenly interested in SEFA.

Business owners and their board of directors are embracing technology and AI designed to boost productivity. These technological advances are changing how warehouse workers work side by side with robots and computers to ensure businesses maximize production.

Early on in my career as a certified professional ergonomist, I became fascinated by the value of ergonomics as a process change agent and influencer on many aspects of organizational design and management. There are several key concepts and people who helped me to formulate the Worksite International Ergonomics Process as it is today as reflected in the Ergonomics Process Influence Model. 

Employers are responsible for providing a safe and healthful workplace for their workers according to OSHA. This has never been more important in response to the pandemic. In the workplace, the number, cost, and severity of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) resulting from physical overexertion, repetitive motion and other causes  are still a major concern. These injuries can be substantially reduced by applying ergonomic principles.

A diverse and inclusive workplace is one that makes everyone, regardless of who they are or what they do for the business, feel equally involved in and supported in all areas of the workplace. 

As a Professional Ergonomist and Chair Assessment Specialist (CASp), I often talk about the science of sitting, chair assessment, selection and fit in my blogs, in my presentations, and when I evaluate employees in the office. You may of heard me say, "if the chair isn't right, then the ergonomics of the workstation will never be correct." 

Over the last year, we've all adapted to working from home. This fact has got me thinking, how many of our new habits, are good habits? This includes our work postures.