Ergonomic Design Implementation

💡 Why Ergonomics Matters Dear Team,     Ergonomics helps us design workstations and tasks to fit you—not the other way around. It prevents strain, reduces fatigue, and lowers the risk of injuries like carpal tunnel, back pain, and muscle strain. 🖥️ Office Ergonomics: Work Smarter, Sit Safer 1. 📏 Monitor & Screen Placement Distance: 20 to 40 inches (about an arm’s length) from your eyes. Top of Screen: At or just below eye level. Tilt: Slight upward tilt (~10–20 degrees) to reduce glare and neck strain. Dual Monitors: If used equally, place them centered. If one is primary, place it directly in front of you. 2. 🪑 Chair Setup Adjustable Seat Height: Feet flat on the floor or footrest; knees at or just below hip level. Backrest: Support the natural curve of your lower back (lumbar support). Armrests: Elbows should rest gently, not causing shoulders to lift. Swivel Base: Reduces twisting and reaching. 3. 🧍♂️🪑 Desks: Types & Tips Adjustable Desks: Allow workers to alternate between sitting and standing. Great for reducing fatigue and improving posture. Fixed-Height Desks: Should be 28"–30" high for most people. Standing Desk Tips: Feet shoulder-width apart Use a footrest or anti-fatigue mat Alternate standing/sitting throughout the day 4. ⌨️🖱️ Keyboard, Mouse & Wrist Position Wrists: Straight, not bent up or down. Keep them neutral. Mouse: Same height and close to the keyboard. Keyboard: Elbows at 90–100 degrees Keep it flat or slightly negative tilt (front lower than back) Avoid resting wrists on sharp desk edges—use wrist supports if needed. 5. 📦 Lifting in the Office Office workers often lift supplies, boxes, or equipment. Remind them: Plan your lift—know where you’re going. Keep objects close to your body. Bend at the knees, not the waist. Tighten your core. Avoid twisting while lifting—pivot with your feet. Use carts or get help for anything over 35 lbs. or awkward loads. 6. 🧠 Extra Ergonomic Tips Take Micro-Breaks: Every 30–60 minutes, stand up, stretch, or walk. Stretch Your Hands & Shoulders: Especially if typing for long periods. Lighting: Reduce glare. Use task lighting if needed. Phone Use: Use a headset—don’t cradle the phone between shoulder and ear. Document Holders: If you reference paperwork, place it at eye level. 📣 REMEMBER: “Ergonomics isn’t about working harder—it’s about working smarter and safer.” "Safety takes time, so take the time for safety." Dwayne Smith

🔍 Method Study for Operational Excellence we recently conducted a detailed method study on the manual neck join process for a T-shirt style for our valued buyer US Polo. 📌 Objective: To analyze existing methods, identify inefficiencies, and implement improvements to reduce cycle time and defects. 🛠️ Key Observations from Initial Study: Average cycle time: 30.8 seconds Frequent stops: 4 times per cycle Ergonomic issue: Chair position too low Defect rate: 9% 📈 Actions Taken: Improved working motion (reduced to 2 stops) Adjusted operator seating ergonomics Enhanced process consistency Reduced defect rate to 7.5% Improved final cycle time to 26.2 seconds ✅ This initiative not only improved operator comfort but also reduced waste and boosted productivity. 📌 Key Takeaway: Small ergonomic and methodical changes can lead to big results. Continuous process development is key to quality, efficiency, and sustainability in apparel manufacturing. #LeanManufacturing #MethodStudy #IndustrialEngineering #GarmentIndustry #OperationalExcellence #ProcessImprovement #TextileEngineering #ApparelProduction #USPolo #SewingEfficiency #IE #LinkedInUpdate

Integrating Technology, Ergonomics, and Efficiency in Cement Plant Control Rooms The control room is the operational brain of a cement plant—where precision defines productivity. According to ABB Group (2022), a well-designed control room can boost efficiency by up to 20%, enhancing key processes like grinding and clinker cooling. 🔧 1. Smart Technology and Automation Distributed Control Systems (DCS) and SCADA platforms are essential for real-time monitoring of variables such as temperature and emissions. Dr. Klaus Reinhold of Siemens notes that “integrating AI to predict equipment failures reduces downtime by 35%” (Cement International Magazine, 2023). High-resolution displays and intuitive dashboards reduce cognitive strain. 🪑 2. Ergonomics Beyond the Chair Ergonomics includes lighting, noise, and screen layout. The International Labour Organization (ILO) reports that 60% of control room errors are tied to poor posture or visual fatigue. María López, an ergonomist at the Technical University of Madrid, advises indirect lighting of 300–500 lux and monitor distance of 50–70 cm (ErgoCement Study, 2021). 📐 3. Space and Collaboration Layout matters. Engineer Jorge Ramírez (FLSmidth) recommends semicircular designs with workstations grouped by process area to improve team communication (Global Cement Summit, 2023). ISO 11064 suggests anti-static floors and soundproofing to ensure operator safety. 🎓 4. Human Factor and Training Technology supports but doesn’t replace human judgment. Laura Márquez, an industrial psychologist, highlights that VR training and crisis simulators improve decision-making under stress (Cembureau, 2022). Rotating roles prevent burnout and boost adaptability. 🌱 5. Sustainable and Future-Ready Energy Management Systems (EMS), IoT sensors, and solar integration can reduce a plant’s carbon footprint by 12%, according to the Cement Sustainability Initiative (2023). 🔍 Conclusion An ideal control room fuses advanced automation, ergonomic science, and resilient human design. As IChemE puts it: “Investing in these elements isn’t an expense—it’s a long-term ROI multiplier.” 📌 What elements do you consider essential in a modern control room? Share your thoughts in the comments! For more information on ICC and the cement history, click the links and contact us. https://lnkd.in/dfz49RFP - 𝗜𝗖𝗖 𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘀𝘁 https://lnkd.in/eHzm8g_W - 𝗖𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸 #INfluenCement ICC Independent Cement Consultants ICC Independent Cement Consultants (Brazil/LATAM) #cement #technology #innovation #networking #synergy #posts #socialmedia #professional #knowledge #experience #production #share #comment #like #follow #cemento #cimento #ciment #zement #worldwide #grinding #process #optimization #strategy #operation #maintenance #performance #building #partnership #spareparts #management #clinker #kiln #safety #combustion #cooler #consultants #products #manufacturing #quality #startup #engineering #sustainability #supply

Interesting document from ILO-IEA ============ Principles and guidelines for human factors/ergonomics (HFE) design and management of work systems Author(s): ILO and IEA Publication date: 4 November 2021 Effective human factors/ergonomics (HFE) is indispensable to support our life and work in the 21st century; without attention to HFE in design, work systems will not support the sustainability of workers, organizations, or societies. This document is intended to make explicit the value proposition of HFE focused on worker safety, health, and wellbeing in the optimization of work systems. These principles and guidelines for HFE design and management of work systems apply across all sectors and occupations. They are evidence-based and describe ways to integrate physical, cognitive, and organizational HFE into the design and management of work systems to ensure worker safety, health, and wellbeing and to enhance worker and organizational performance, effectiveness, and sustainability. This publication will not only provide an important technical basis for the ILO in its standard-setting activities on workplace ergonomics, but also a useful tool for the world experts, practitioners, employers and workers and their organizations, national institutions and all those who have a role in ensuring safe and healthy work environments. ------ Implementing HFE guidelines: Guideline 1. Use a systems approach Guideline 2. Consider and design for all relevant characteristics of workers Guideline 3. Apply participatory HFE methodologies for HFE design and management of work systems Guideline 4. Incorporate proactive measures to ensure worker safety, health, wellbeing, and sustainability Guideline 5. Tailor HFE design and management of work systems to characteristics of the organization Guideline 6. Sustain a continuous learning process for evaluation, training, refinement, and redesign of HFE in work systems #ergonomics #humanfactors #guideline #worksystem #design #management #safety #health #productivity #ergonomi #keselamatan #kesehatan #kerja #k3

The Hidden Danger in Our Workplaces: Ergonomic Hazards As Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) professionals, we often focus on eliminating unsafe acts and conditions in the workplace. However, there's a critical aspect that's frequently overlooked: Ergonomic Hazards. Ergonomic hazards refer to the physical and mental stresses caused by poorly designed workspaces, equipment, and tasks. These hazards can lead to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), such as back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and tendonitis. Alarming Facts: - According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), approximately 2.3 million workers die annually due to work-related injuries and illnesses. (1) - The ILO also estimates that 160 million workers suffer from work-related diseases, with MSDs being a significant contributor. (2) - In the United States alone, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that MSDs account for nearly 30% of all workplace injuries and illnesses. (3) The Consequences of Neglect: By neglecting ergonomic hazards, organizations risk: - Decreased productivity and efficiency - Increased absenteeism and turnover - Higher workers' compensation claims and medical costs - Damage to their reputation and brand A Call to Action for HSE Professionals: It's time for us to shift our focus and prioritize ergonomic hazards in our workplaces. Here are some steps to take: 1. Conduct ergonomic risk assessments to identify potential hazards. 2. Implement ergonomic solutions, such as adjustable workstations and proper lighting. 3. Provide training on proper lifting techniques, posture, and body mechanics. 4. Encourage employee reporting of ergonomic concerns and near-miss incidents. 5. Develop and enforce ergonomic policies and procedures. To create a safer, healthier, and more productive work environment, let's make ergonomic hazards a top priority. Share your thoughts and experiences on addressing ergonomic hazards in your workplace. #ErgonomicHazards #HSE #WorkplaceSafety #MusculoskeletalDisorders #Productivity #WellnessAtWork #Safety #Health

Science Corner Article Summary Addressing Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders in Construction: Insights and Solutions Construction workers face a high risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs), which significantly impact health, productivity, and economic outcomes. A systematic review by Anwer et al. (2021) in the International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics highlights the prevalence, risk factors, and strategies to mitigate these risks. Understanding WRMSDs WRMSDs affect muscles, nerves, tendons, and joints, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling. They are the leading cause of disability in construction, resulting in substantial medical costs and lost workdays. Main Concerns • Prevalence: 25% to 96% of workers are affected, depending on the region. • Physical Risks: Awkward postures and manual material handling are key contributors. • Psychosocial Risks: High job demands and mental stress exacerbate the problem, necessitating comprehensive support. Strategic Solutions • Ergonomic Interventions: Use adjustable tools and provide training in proper techniques to minimise strain. • Risk Assessment: Identify risks early and integrate them into planning to prevent issues, including psychosocial risks. • Assistive Technologies: Employ technologies like exoskeletons to reduce physical load. • Trade-Specific Measures: Develop tailored preventive strategies to address varying risks across trades. • Education and Training: Raise awareness and equip workers to detect and manage symptoms. Addressing Psychosocial Risks Effective management of psychosocial risks is critical, including: • Reducing stress sources, such as long hours and unclear roles. • Redesigning roles to include clear responsibilities and adequate rest. • Providing support during high-stress periods. • Educating on mental health, stress management, and seeking early help. Conclusion An integrated approach addressing both physical and psychosocial risks is essential to mitigate WRMSDs. By combining ergonomic improvements, education, and policy changes, employers can enhance worker well-being and reduce the burden of these disorders. For detailed insights, refer to the original study: Anwer, S., Li, H., Antwi-Afari, M. F., & Wong, A. Y. L. (2021). Associations between physical or psychosocial risk factors and work-related musculoskeletal disorders in construction workers based on literature in the last 20 years: A systematic review. International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, 83, 103113. doi:10.1016/j.ergon.2021.103113 #ConstructionSafety #WorkerHealth #Ergonomics #OccupationalHealthSafety #ConstructionIndustry