711 Introduction to Ergonomics

Ergonomics and Risk Factors

• Risk factors inherent in the worker
  
• Risk factors inherent in the task
  
• Risk factors inherent in the environment

Workers come in all shapes and sizes, each with unique attributes that present certain ergonomic risk factors inherent in the worker. The task(s) of the job itself can present risk factors that increase the likelihood of an injury. Finally, the workplace environment, within which the worker and job exist, may also contain exposures to risk factors. We will cover each of these risk factor categories in this course.

Who is at risk?

That's a great question. Let's take a look at the factors that increase the risk of an injury. The risk for developing MSDs increases for workers who must:

• repeat the same motion often throughout their workday;
• do their work in an awkward position;
• use a great deal of force to perform their jobs;
• repeatedly lift heavy objects; or
• face a combination of these risk factors.

The level of risk depends on how long a worker is exposed to these conditions, how often they are exposed, and the level of exposure.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.