Industrial sector jobs need ergonomic equipment and practices just as any white-collar office would. In fact, there are more slip and fall injuries, reports of back strain from heavy lifting, and repetitive stress injuries in the arms and wrists at industrial jobs. All of these incidences can be remedied with the benefits of simple ergonomic interventions. Industrial business can reap many benefits from implanting ergonomic practices including fewer injuries on the job, less time missed by employees due to injury, higher productivity rates, and a reduced cost associated with disability and worker’s compensation.

 

Though industrial workplaces present unique challenges to the world of ergonomics, there are some basic changes that can be made for the better. Whether it’s at an assembly line, a shared workstation, or in regard to moving heavy loads, the following can help ease strain on the worker’s body:

 

1. Anti-Fatigue Mats

These provide additional traction to reduce or prevent slip and fall accidents. They also provide extra padding to the often concrete floors found in the manufacturing industry. This extra padding can prevent leg and back fatigue to those employees that stand for long periods of time. Ergonomic shoes are also a great option for employees that spend more time walking from station to station in the workplace.

 

2. Adjustable Tables

Customizable workstations allow employees to adjust their table to the appropriate height for their body. This makes it so employees don’t have to bend over or be raising their arms too high at tables too low or high for them.

 

3. Footrests

Helping to further relieve strain on the legs and feet, footrests can be used to alternate weight on either leg, allowing the muscles in one to rest.

 

4. Forearm Supports

Forearm supports each strain and can prevent injuries to the shoulders, elbows, wrists, and hands. They come in foam wedges that can be moved from station to station or as permanent yet adjustable attachments to tables.

 

5. In-House Ergonomic Evaluation

All employees in an industrial workplace should learn and practice proper lifting habits. Our team of experts can provide in-house ergonomic evaluations for your industrial workplace to demonstrate the best way to handle heavy loads without incurring back injuries.

 

Industrial ergonomics can be pivotal for factory workers that experience long hours of standing or repetitive motions. If you want to protect your workers from injury or improve their productivity, consider adding some ergonomic elements to your industrial manufacturing space. Healthier and happier workers are more productive workers, and we see this time and time again after implementing ergonomic practices. Show your employees some support!