E R G O N O M I C   A S S E S S M E N T S

In 1997, Cal/OSHA adopted an ergonomics standard affecting all California employers, regardless of size. Ergonomics is the science that studies the interaction between individuals and their total working environment. As jobs have become more mechanized and specialized, and tasks increasingly repetitious, the impact of improperly designed tools, work stations and processes has resulted in chronic back, shoulder, elbow, wrist and hand problems. Eyestrain, headaches and fatigue are also commonly observed in poorly designed work environments. The Cohen Group studies these situations and determines how the workplace can be designed or adapted to eliminate the problem. Some changes are simple and reap immediate benefits, such as turning the video display terminal screen away from the glare of windows, altering material handling practices, or job sharing between employees. When major changes are necessary, our clients tell us that the initial expense more than paid for itself in terms of increased productivity, reduced workers compensation claim costs, and improved morale. When necessary, The Cohen Group provides a comprehensive program that includes written procedures, routine workplace evaluation, controls and employee training in compliance with the Cal/OSHA ergonomics standard.

An electronics firm was experiencing more worker compensation claims from one shift in an assembly department than from the other two shifts. The Cohen Group evaluated worker task performance on all three shifts and found that the time given to perform a series of tasks was shorter on the shift in question, resulting in increased physical stress to workers. The time was adjusted and minor material handling changes were instituted. Subsequently, the number of claims fell on all three shifts.

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