MODULE 7: The Basic Hazards and Protections-Physical Hazards and Ergonomics

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Dr. Laura Regan presents on the topic of physical hazards and ergonomics. She introduces herself as a practicing occupational medicine physician with experience in ergonomics assessments. She discusses the importance of controlling hazards in the workplace and how they relate to physical hazards and ergonomics. She explains that ergonomics is the study of fitting tasks to the worker and improving efficiency in the work environment, including the design of workspaces to reduce injury. She highlights the main principles of hazard control, such as engineering controls, workstation redesign, administrative controls, and personal protective equipment (PPE). She emphasizes that PPE, especially as it pertains to ergonomics, is considered the least desirable and least effective means of creating a safe work environment. Dr. Regan also discusses specific physical hazards in the workplace, such as hyperbaric pressure, high altitude, temperature extremes, and vibration exposure. She provides examples of how these hazards can be managed through various methods, including job design, administrative controls, and use of equipment. Additionally, she explains the importance of body positioning and the impact it can have on muscle fatigue and injury risk. She discusses the proper positioning for the neck, shoulder, wrist, and hand, as well as strategies to prevent strain and injury. Dr. Regan also addresses the role of personal protective equipment (PPE) and its effectiveness in preventing injuries, highlighting that lumbar supports, wrist splints, and knee braces have limited efficacy. She suggests frequent position changes and the use of sit-to-stand workstations as effective administrative controls to reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders. Finally, she mentions additional resources for learning more about ergonomics, including the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) , the American Industrial Hygiene Association, and the availability of online tools for ergonomic analysis and assessment.

Keywords

physical hazards

ergonomics

occupational medicine

hazard control

workstation redesign

administrative controls

PPE

muscle fatigue

injury prevention

body positioning

musculoskeletal disorders

sit-to-stand workstations