lean

One of the most common question I am asked about ergonomics pertains to how to best sustain the program and improvements.  Most companies experience very few issues in starting ergonomics, whether that be initial training of an “ergo team” or making primary improvements to a work area.  However, sustaining those effects seems to be where things break down.  The following are 5 methods to ensure sustainability of ergonomics.

1. Integrate ergonomics into your current methods your company uses for sustaining process, quality and productivity improvements.

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are one of the most common types of injuries that occur in most industries.  MSDs on average account for up to 75% of workplace recordable injuries.  In order to reduce the injury rate and related expenses, companies should focus on methods to reduce and/or prevent MSDs.  There are essentially 5 different approaches to managing MSDs.  Listed from least effective to most effective, they are: 

In my career, I have been an employee for companies in which I was a part of leadership team in implementing ergonomics and lean programs.

Lean Six Sigma Steps and Tools

Continued from Improve the Effectiveness of Employee Training by Apply Lean & Human Factors Principles Part 1

/HF Techniques For Training

Every employer provides some type of employee training.  The effectiveness of that training is often circumspect.  Did you ever have employees attend a training and afterwards you would swear that despite your ability to verify they were there physically, you questioned whether they really learned anything as nothing changed—not their skills, retention of information and/or actions.  Why is this and what can be done? 

In my previous blog I listed out 5 common misconceptions and/or mistakes employers make when considering/implementing sit-stand workstations (SSWs).  SSWs are an investment and one worth doing right the first time in order for SSW implementation to be successful and sustainable and, of course in all business investments, to optimize ROI—employee usage, health & safety, and productivity.  The following are 5 Solutions to the Common Mistakes/Mis

Can changing to a quicker cadence be the right solution to resolve timing, error and safety issues in your company?   It was the solution for one client of mine.  Not only that but it was also a solution to one of my personal fitness issues too!  Read on to learn how a cadence change can benefit you.

A couple weeks ago I attended as well as presented at ASSE’s Safety 20125 professional development conference.  I always enjoy spending time in the exhibit hall looking for new and innovative products.  There were two products that caught my attention this year.  The first I will highlight in this blog and the second in another blog. 

Lift’n Buddy