Participatory ergonomics for the reduction of musculoskeletal exposure of maintenance workers.

Participatory ergonomics for the reduction of musculoskeletal exposure of maintenance workers. Int J Occup Saf Ergon. 2020 Apr 28;:1-21 Authors: Capodaglio EM Abstract Exposure to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) is prevalent risk among those working for the maintenance of machinery and equipment in industry. Participatory ergonomics (PE) at the workplace embodies a solid strategy for the implementation of MSDs prevention programs. This practical case describes a participatory ergonomics project implemented to improve MSDs prevention strategies for the safety of maintenance workers. Experienced workers and maintenance workers employed in an Italian company for the industrial processing of wool have been actively involved in the risk assessment, in the proposal of improvement interventions and in the proposal of new preventive strategies. Ergonomic training and guidance helped the workers to have a proactive role inside prevention process. PE can help in the preventive management of critical activities of maintenance, through the empowerment of workers, the identification of targeted and feasible solutions and by using ergonomics as a basis for improving health and safety at work. PMID: 32343204 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics - Category: Occupational Health Tags: Int J Occup Saf Ergon Source Type: research