Michael C. Apostol ce32fa3 WHAT IS ERGONOMICS?

Ergonomics is sometimes defined as the science of fitting the work to the user instead of forcing the user to fit the work. However this is more a primary ergonomic principle rather than a definition. Also Known As: Human Factors, Human Engineering, Human Factors Engineering Examples: Using proper posture and body mechanics, good placement of computer equipment, comfortable handles and grips as well as efficient layout of kitchen appliances are all aspects of ergonomics.

EXAMPLES OF CUMULATIVE TRAUMA DISORDERS The term cumulative trauma disorder identifies a large group of conditions that result from traumatizing the body in either a minute or major way over a period of time. It is the build up of trauma that causes the disorder. These conditions are often focused on a joint and usually affect the muscle, bone, tendon or bursa of the joint. However other anatomical features and areas can be stressed and their response to that trauma can be an injury. Some common examples of cumulative trauma disorders are:

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Tendonitis Bursitis Examples of Specific Clinical Conditions:

supraspinatus tendinitis lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow) medial epicondylitis (golfer's elbow) tenosynovitis/tenovaginitis trigger finger ganglion cyst carpal tunnel syndrome

Examples of General Clinical Conditions:

cervical syndrome cervicobrachial syndrome

HOW TO AVOID IT?

Do warm-up exercises before beginning physically demanding tasks (take a tip from athletes). Plan ahead, if you will be doing a job that is awkward--think of ways to make it easier. Rotate your work position, to change how muscles are used during your work shift. Use the proper tool for the job to avoid awkward movements and the need for overexertion. Take a rest break when fatigue sets in. Just a few minutes can make a difference. Carefully stretch tired or overworked muscles to improve circulation and relieve tension. When appropriate, use anti-shock or anti-vibration gloves, back supports, wrist supports, or other personal protective equipment that helps prevent cumulative trauma. Always use proper lifting techniques. Back strain is one of the most common CTD's. When using hand tools keep your wrists in a "neutral" position, as opposed to repeatedly bending them up, down or sideways during work tasks. Just because a co-worker is not affected by a physically demanding task, don't ignore messages your body sends you. Although humans share many physical characteristics, people are often different in terms of their physical strengths and weaknesses.

A.What are the benefits for injuries and illness occuring on the job? They can include: 1. Medical Care- Paid for by your employer to help you recover from an injury or illness caused by work. 2. Temporary Disability Benefits- Payments if you cant recover completely and will temporarily be somewhat limited in your ability to work. 3. Permanent Disability Benefits- Payments if you cant recover completely and will always be somewhat limited in your ability to work. 4. Vocational Rehabilitation- Job placement counseling and possibly retraining, if you are unable to return to your old job and your employer doesnt offer other work. 5. Death Benefits- Payments to the spouse, children, or other dependents of a worker who dies from a job injury or illness. B.. three purpuses of osha OSHAs Core PuRPUSES 1.Develop and enforce job safety and health standards.

2.Ensure healthful working conditions for workers. 3.Reduce workplace hazards. 4.Provide new or improved workplace safety and health programs. 5.Provide research to solve on thejob safety and health problems. 6.Establish responsibilities for employers and employees. 7.Develop recordkeeping and reporting requirements. 8.Build on employer and employee initiatives for providing safe and healthy working conditions. 9.Working with state occupational safety and health agencies C.four types of emergencies required for special procedures. 1.Dangers to life 2.Dangers to health 3.Dangers to property 4.Dangers to the environment