Top Banner
AW 101 OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH Chap 4 | Prepared by : Azween Irma Bt Zainal 1 4.0 WORKPLACE ENVIRONMENT AND ERGONOMICS 4.1 Describe the history of ergonomics 4.1.1 The history of ergonomics The foundations of the science of ergonomics appear to have been laid within the context of the culture of Ancient Greece. A good deal of evidence indicates that Hellenic civilization in the 5th century BC used ergonomic principles in the design of their tools, jobs, and workplaces. One outstanding example of this can be found in the description Hippocrates gave of how a surgeon's workplace should be designed and how the tools he uses should be arranged (see Marmaras, Poulakakis and Papakostopoulos, 1999). [4] It is also true that archaeological records of the early Egyptians Dynasties made tools, household equipment, among others that illustrated ergonomic principles. It is therefore questionable whether the claim by Marmaras, et al., regarding the origin of ergonomics, can be justified (I G Okorji, 2009). The term ergonomics is derived from the Greek words ergon [work] and nomos [natural laws] and first entered the modern lexicon whenWojciech Jastrzębowski used the word in his 1857 article Rys ergonomji czyli nauki o pracy, opartej na prawdach poczerpniętych z Nauki Przyrody (The Outline of Ergonomics, i.e. Science of Work, Based on the Truths Taken from the Natural Science). Later, in the 19th century, Frederick Winslow Taylor pioneered the "Scientific Management" method, which proposed a way to find the optimum method for carrying out a given task. Taylor found that he could, for example, triple the amount of coal that workers were shoveling by incrementally reducing the size and weight of coal shovels until the fastest shoveling rate was reached. Frank and Lillian Gilbrethexpanded Taylor's methods in the early 1900s to develop "Time and Motion Studies". They aimed to improve efficiency by eliminating unnecessary steps and actions. By applying this approach, the Gilbreths reduced the number of motions in bricklaying from 18 to 4.5, allowing bricklayers to increase their productivity from 120 to 350 bricks per hour. World War II marked the development of new and complex machines and weaponry, and these made new demands on operators' cognition. The decision-making, attention, situational awareness and hand-eye coordination of the machine's operator became key in the success or failure of a task. It was observed that fully functional aircraft, flown by the best-trained pilots, still crashed. In 1943, Alphonse Chapanis, a lieutenant in the U.S.
26

Chapter 7-Workplace Environment and Ergonomics

Nov 20, 2015

Download

Documents

Daisy Hayani

OSHA notes on topic 7
Welcome message from author
This document is posted to help you gain knowledge. Please leave a comment to let me know what you think about it! Share it to your friends and learn new things together.
Transcript
  • AAWW 110011 OOCCCCUUPPAATTIIOONNAALL SSAAFFEETTYY AANNDD HHEEAALLTTHH CChhaapp 44

    | Prepared by : Azween Irma Bt Zainal

    1

    4.0 WORKPLACE ENVIRONMENT AND ERGONOMICS

    4.1 Describe the history of ergonomics

    4.1.1 The history of ergonomics

    The foundations of the science of ergonomics appear to have been laid within the

    context of the culture of Ancient Greece. A good deal of evidence indicates that Hellenic

    civilization in the 5th century BC used ergonomic principles in the design of their tools,

    jobs, and workplaces. One outstanding example of this can be found in the description

    Hippocrates gave of how a surgeon's workplace should be designed and how the tools

    he uses should be arranged (see Marmaras, Poulakakis and Papakostopoulos, 1999).[4] It

    is also true that archaeological records of the early Egyptians Dynasties made tools,

    household equipment, among others that illustrated ergonomic principles. It is

    therefore questionable whether the claim by Marmaras, et al., regarding the origin of

    ergonomics, can be justified (I G Okorji, 2009).

    The term ergonomics is derived from the Greek words ergon [work] and nomos [natural

    laws] and first entered the modern lexicon whenWojciech Jastrzbowski used the word

    in his 1857 article Rys ergonomji czyli nauki o pracy, opartej na prawdach poczerpnitych

    z Nauki Przyrody (The Outline of Ergonomics, i.e. Science of Work, Based on the Truths

    Taken from the Natural Science).

    Later, in the 19th century, Frederick Winslow Taylor pioneered the "Scientific

    Management" method, which proposed a way to find the optimum method for carrying

    out a given task. Taylor found that he could, for example, triple the amount of coal that

    workers were shoveling by incrementally reducing the size and weight of coal shovels

    until the fastest shoveling rate was reached. Frank and Lillian Gilbrethexpanded Taylor's

    methods in the early 1900s to develop "Time and Motion Studies". They aimed to

    improve efficiency by eliminating unnecessary steps and actions. By applying this

    approach, the Gilbreths reduced the number of motions in bricklaying from 18 to 4.5,

    allowing bricklayers to increase their productivity from 120 to 350 bricks per hour.

    World War II marked the development of new and complex machines and weaponry,

    and these made new demands on operators' cognition. The decision-making, attention,

    situational awareness and hand-eye coordination of the machine's operator became key

    in the success or failure of a task. It was observed that fully functional aircraft, flown by

    the best-trained pilots, still crashed. In 1943, Alphonse Chapanis, a lieutenant in the U.S.

    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_Greecehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ergonomics#cite_note-3http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wojciech_Jastrz%C4%99bowskihttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frederick_Winslow_Taylorhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scientific_Managementhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scientific_Managementhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scientific_Managementhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frank_Gilbrethhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lillian_Moller_Gilbrethhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bricklayinghttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_War_IIhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alphonse_Chapanis

  • AAWW 110011 OOCCCCUUPPAATTIIOONNAALL SSAAFFEETTYY AANNDD HHEEAALLTTHH CChhaapp 44

    | Prepared by : Azween Irma Bt Zainal

    2

    Army, showed that this so-called "pilot error" could be greatly reduced when more

    logical and differentiable controls replaced confusing designs in airplane cockpits.

    In the decades since the war, ergonomics has continued to flourish and diversify.

    The Space Age created new human factors issues such as weightlessness and extreme g-

    forces. How far could environments in space be tolerated, and what effects would they

    have on the mind and body? The dawn of the Information Age has resulted in the new

    ergonomics field of human-computer interaction (HCI). Likewise, the growing demand

    for and competition among consumer goods and electronics has resulted in more

    companies including human factors in product design.

    The coining of the term Ergonomics, however, is now widely attributed to British

    psychologist Hywel Murrell, at the 1949 meeting at the UK'sAdmiralty, which led to the

    foundation of The Ergonomics Society. He used it to encompass the studies in which he

    had been engaged during and after the Second World War.

    4.1.2 Definition of statutory requirements related to ergonomics in OSHA 1994

    In Section 15, OSHA 1994 stated that so far as is practicable every employer and self

    employed person shall ensure the safety, health and welfare of his/her employees

    Those duties included to, Provide and maintain safe plant and safe system of work,

    Make arrangements for safe use, operation, handling, storage and transportation of

    substances and plant, Provide information, instruction, training and supervision, Provide

    and maintain safe place of work and safe access and aggress; and Provide and maintain

    working environment that is safe and without health risk and with adequate welfare

    facilities.

    Work environment include:-

    Workplace i.e building, structure and vehicles

    Physical work environment i.e lighting, ventilation, heat, ergonomic,

    noise etc.

    Psychological environment i.e mental problem, stress

    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Space_Agehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G-forceshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G-forceshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Information_Agehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Human-computer_interactionhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Consumer_goodshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electronicshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Admiralty_House,_Londonhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Institute_of_Ergonomics_and_Human_Factors

  • AAWW 110011 OOCCCCUUPPAATTIIOONNAALL SSAAFFEETTYY AANNDD HHEEAALLTTHH CChhaapp 44

    | Prepared by : Azween Irma Bt Zainal

    3

    4.1.3 Determine objectives of ergonomics

    Two main objectives:-

    To improve work effectiveness and efficiency or any activities such as reduce

    mistakes and increase productivity and make work easier.

    To increase humidity such as increase safety, decrease exhausted and pressure,

    increase working comfortability, working quality and life.

    4.2 Understand workstation design principle

    4.2.1 Illustration Of Sitting Work Position

  • AAWW 110011 OOCCCCUUPPAATTIIOONNAALL SSAAFFEETTYY AANNDD HHEEAALLTTHH CChhaapp 44

    | Prepared by : Azween Irma Bt Zainal

    4

    4.2.2 Illustration of Standing Work Position

    4.3 Understand Ergonomic Risk

    4.3.1 Musculo-Skeletal-Disorders(MSD)

    Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) can affect the body's muscles, joints, tendons,

    ligamentsand nerves. Most work-related MSDs develop over time and are caused either

    by the work itself or by the employees' working environment. They can also result from

    fractures sustained in an accident. Typically, MSDs affect the back, neck, shoulders and

    upper limbs; less often they affect the lower limbs ..

    Musculoskeletal Disorders :Signs and Symptoms

    Numbness or a burning sensation in the hand

    Reduced grip strength in the hand

    Swelling or stiffness in the joints

    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Musclehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jointhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tendonhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ligamenthttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nerve

  • AAWW 110011 OOCCCCUUPPAATTIIOONNAALL SSAAFFEETTYY AANNDD HHEEAALLTTHH CChhaapp 44

    | Prepared by : Azween Irma Bt Zainal

    5

    Pain in wrists, forearms, elbows, neck, or back followed by discomfort

    Reduced range of motion in the shoulder, neck, or back

    Dry, itchy, or sore eyes

    Blurred or double vision

    Aching or tingling

    Cramping

    Loss of color in affected regions

    Weakness

    Tension stress headaches and related ailments

    Musculoskeletal Disorders can be caused by any of the following factors:

    If the user maintains an unnatural or unhealthy posture while using the computer

    If the lower back support is inadequate for the user

    If the user continues to sit in the same position for an extended period of time

    If the set up of the workstation is Ergonomically poor.

    It should be noticed that all these symptoms might not necessarily lead to an

    Musculoskeletal Disorders However, if the user experiences any of the above

    symptoms, he/she should make an evaluation of their working positions as well as

    the layout of their workstation.

    Musculoskeletal Disorders :Types

    The different types of Musculoskeletal Disorders are as follows:

    Repetitive Stain Injury

    Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

    Other Ergonomic Problems

    Musculoskeletal Disorders : Preventive Methods

    http://www.safecomputingtips.com/repetitive-strain-injury.htmlhttp://www.safecomputingtips.com/carpal-tunnel-syndrome.html

  • AAWW 110011 OOCCCCUUPPAATTIIOONNAALL SSAAFFEETTYY AANNDD HHEEAALLTTHH CChhaapp 44

    | Prepared by : Azween Irma Bt Zainal

    6

    It is always better to take precautions to avoid Musculoskeletal Disorders than to

    treat them after you get affected. Some general precautions include:

    Taking regular breaks from working at your computer - a few minutes at

    least once an hour

    Alternating work tasks like mixing computer tasks with non computer

    tasks alternately to avoid strain

    Regular stretching to relax your body

    Using comfort equipment such as footrests, wrist/palm rests, and

    document holders if required

    Keeping the mouse and keyboard at the same level

    Avoiding gripping your mouse too tightly it is always recommended to hold the mouse lightly and click gently

    Familiarize yourself with keyboard shortcuts for applications you

    regularly use like Ctrl+S to save and Ctrl+P to print (to avoid overusing the

    mouse).

    As discussed earlier, ensure that your workstation is set up correctly otherwise

    may lead to Musculoskeletal Disorders. Normally, it includes the monitor,

    keyboard, mouse, seating, desk, and where appropriate, footrest (to help you

    rest your feet flat if they dont reach the floor), wrist rest, and document holder.

    http://www.safecomputingtips.com/musculoskeletal-disorders2.html

  • AAWW 110011 OOCCCCUUPPAATTIIOONNAALL SSAAFFEETTYY AANNDD HHEEAALLTTHH CChhaapp 44

    | Prepared by : Azween Irma Bt Zainal

    7

    44..44 UUnnddeerrssttaanndd WWoorrkkppllaaccee EEnnvviirroonnmmeenntt

    4.4.1 Indoor Air Quality And Its Effect On The Respiratory System

    Good indoor air quality is desired for a healthy indoor environment. Poor indoor air quality can cause a variety of short-term and long term health problems. Health problems commonly associated with poor IAQ include allergic reactions, respiratory problems, eye irritation, sinusitis, bronchitis and pneumonia. IAQ problems arise in non-industrial buildings (an indoor or enclosed work space that is served by a common ventilating and/or air conditioning system where there are person at work, but does not include premises that are used primarily as manufacturing and production facilities and vehicles) when there is an inadequate quantity of ventilation air being provided for the amount of air contaminants present in that space. Hence, IAQ and heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems (HVAC) are closely related.

    Purpose of Ventilation

    To supply fresh air (O2) to human

    To preserved air movement

    To control pollution

    Causes of Poor IAQ.

    Temperature

    Too hot / too cold

    Problems due to bad HVAC handling system (hearing,

    ventilation, conditioning)

    Moisture

    Dried air can caused pneumonia and effects the respiratory

    system, and also eye irritation

    Highly moisture content can produces microorganism and bad

    smell

    Ventilation

    Poor ventilation system from the HVAC or openings

    Can cause a few places in the building received different air

    quality

    Humidity

  • AAWW 110011 OOCCCCUUPPAATTIIOONNAALL SSAAFFEETTYY AANNDD HHEEAALLTTHH CChhaapp 44

    | Prepared by : Azween Irma Bt Zainal

    8

    From human body, coffee, smoking, chemicals etc.

    EFFECTS OF POOR INDOOR AIR QUALITY

    Having discussed the causes of poor indoor air quality, the next step would be to discuss the effects of these. The effects discussed are both the direct effects of the previously named causes as well as their resultant indirect effects. A direct effect of poor indoor air is:

    o Health effects, which result in the indirect effects such as o Lower productivity o Loss in revenue and o Negative Corporate Image

    1. Health Effects

    The immediate effect of poor indoor air quality would be on the health of the occupant(s). The result is a wide range of effects, some of which are:

    Sick Building Syndrome - Sick building syndrome (SBS) not confined to local buildings and has been a problem for years globally. SBS is used to describe a spectrum of non-specific symptoms which on investigation appear to have no identifiable causes (Godish 1997).

    A building is generally defined as sick if 20% or more of the buildings occupants exhibit symptoms (such as headaches, nausea, dizziness, sore throat, dry or itchy skin, sinus congestion, nose irritation or excessive fatigue) and if these symptoms persist for more than two weeks - particularly if he symptoms disappear when the sufferers leave the building for the weekend (Hansen, 1991). The symptoms of SBS can occur simply or in combination with each other, may be cyclic or episodic, and may be non-specific and resemble a common cold or other respiratory illnesses. The symptoms commonly include mucous membrane symptoms (irritation of the eyes, nose, throat, sinuses) general symptoms (headache, fatigue, lassitude), skin irritation (dryness, rashes), and at a lesser extent respiratory symptoms (cough, shortness of breath), (Godish, 1997). Building Related Illnesss (BRI) These are illnesses that result from exposure to a sick building (Hansen 1991). Building related illness is characterized by what are often a unique set of symptoms accompanied by clinical signs, laboratory test results and specific pollutants (Godish, 1997). BRI is caused by bacteria, fungus and virus. Included in BRI are nosocomial infection, fibreglass, dermatitis and the hypersensitivity diseases (e.g. common allergy, asthma and humidifier fever).

  • AAWW 110011 OOCCCCUUPPAATTIIOONNAALL SSAAFFEETTYY AANNDD HHEEAALLTTHH CChhaapp 44

    | Prepared by : Azween Irma Bt Zainal

    9

    Legionnaires Disease This is the most widely recognized form of BRI infectious disease. It is caused by the bacterium Legionella pneumophila and causes pneumonia-like symptoms such as headaches, chest pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, weight loss, fever, dry cough, recurrent chills and myalgia. It has a 15% fatality rate. Legionella pneumophilia has been identified as the cause of Pontiac fever, which is a relatively mild clinical form of Legionnaires disease, however, is a non-pneumatic disease.

    2. Lower Productivity

    The symptoms and diseases previously mentioned in a commercial setting may cause absenteeism amongst employees or workers. As a result, companies may suffer a decrease in productivity. In the case where one room or area can no longer be occupied or cannot be occupied for long periods, the result is again lowered productivity. If occupants experience the symptoms or illnesses mentioned in the previous sections, yet still report to work, the productivity of the individual and hence the company collectively may be reduced. Continued poor indoor air quality can result in low worker morale, which can again lower productivity of the workforce. 3. Loss in Revenue

    Absenteeism leading to lower productivity in a commercial setting immediately results in loss in revenue. Revenue is lost in the repair and / or replacement of air conditioning systems rather than in the periodic maintenance. This is seen in cases where microbial contamination has entered the system via rodents or pigeons, resulting in the entire system being condemned. Poor indoor air quality may also have legal implications. Revenue may be lost as a result of compensation to affected occupants, or, if compensation is not required, in the payment of legal fees. Presently in Trinidad and Tobago, with the advent of the Occupational Safety and Health Act, once proclaimed, employees have legal grounds in which to base complaints of illnesses related to time spent at work. The Act also states implicitly employees and occupiers duty to safeguard employees health and safety while at work. The Act mentions the provision of adequate ventilation (Part VI - Health, 36), removal of dust and fumes (Part IV - Safety, 24) and General Duties of employers to their employees (Part II - General Duties 6), General Duties of Occupiers (Part II - 6) and General duty of occupiers to protect safety and health of public (Part IV - 9). Litigation can be a costly and time-consuming exercise which drain the resources and revenues of a company.

  • AAWW 110011 OOCCCCUUPPAATTIIOONNAALL SSAAFFEETTYY AANNDD HHEEAALLTTHH CChhaapp 44

    | Prepared by : Azween Irma Bt Zainal

    10

    4. Negative Corporate Image Buildings in the capital, Port of Spain, are usually owned by a single landlord. Reports of poor indoor air quality in specific landlords buildings may result in decreased tenancy and negative public image for that landlord. Similarly, reports of illnesses related to time spent at work in a company can result in a negative corporate image. The effect of a negative image of a company cannot be tangibly measured, however it affects customer perception, which arguably can affect revenue. A significant cost can also be attached to reversing a negative image and changing the publics perception of a company.

    4.4.2 Measuring Lighting and Sightedness

    All parts of the site need to be properly lit by natural or artificial

    means whenever work is going on.

    Site lightning is always necessary in those area short of natural light

    such as shafts and enclosed stairways.

    Artificial lighting should be placed to avoid deep shadow-these may

    conceal hazards which would be obvious in good light.

    Mounting of lights should be as high as practicable to avoid glare, and

    lights should be placed so that workers do not have to work in their

    own shadow.

    Only robustly installed fittings which are well out of reach, such as

    floodingting, should be at full mains voltage.

    Temporary electric lighting should be installed by trained electricians

    using low-voltage equipment.

    This can be assist in its safe use in the following ways:-

    Do not interfere with installation.

    Report any damaged insulation, on broken bulbs, lampholders

    or fittings.

    Make sure that cables are fastened well off the ground and do

    not let cables or connections trails in wet conditions.

    Do not change bulbs yourself

  • AAWW 110011 OOCCCCUUPPAATTIIOONNAALL SSAAFFEETTYY AANNDD HHEEAALLTTHH CChhaapp 44

    | Prepared by : Azween Irma Bt Zainal

    11

    4.4.3 Measuring Temperature And Humidity

    There are six (6) parameter parameter can contribute to temperature and humidity :-

    Air temperature

    Radian temperature

    Air movement

    Moisture Content

    Metabolism

    Clothes

    Equipment to measure temperature and humidity:-

    To measure air temperature:-

    - Termomoter

    To measure air movement:-

    - Kata termomoter @ anemometer

    To measure air moisture:-

    - Wet and dry termomoter

    To measure heat radiation.

    - Globe termomoter

    Hot Weather.

    Workers on construction sites are often exposed to all weathers.

    In tropical countries radiation from the sun, with light air temperatures and

    humidity, increases fatigue from heavy work and causes heat stress which may

    lead to heat exhaustion and heatstroke, the latter a medical emergency, and to

    ill health.

    The effects of heat combined with physical workload tend to accumulate.

    Good welfare facilities are essential to health in hot climates, and the suitable

    arrangement of working time is important. There should be:-

    - Sufficient work breaks: for moderately heavy or heavy work 50 percent or

    more rest time is essential;

    - Rest areas away from workstations to cool off;

  • AAWW 110011 OOCCCCUUPPAATTIIOONNAALL SSAAFFEETTYY AANNDD HHEEAALLTTHH CChhaapp 44

    | Prepared by : Azween Irma Bt Zainal

    12

    - An adequate supply of clean, cool drinking water: drink often and in small

    quantities;

    - Washing facilities provided to keep work clothes clean.

    How to keep cool

    Keep put of direct sunlight as much as possible.

    Avoid unnecessary quick movements.

    Ensure that there is air circulation in operators cabins.

    Avoid wearing tight clothes or those which prevent evaporation of perspiration

    such as some plastic materials.

    Wear head protection

    Take cool drinks regularly to replace moisture lost through perspiration

    Add salt to food or eat food that contains natural salt.

    Find a shady place to rest pauses.

    Cold Weather.

    Cold is not just uncomfortable it may affect health and judgement. Although

    not a serious problem in tropical climates, it may nevertheless be experienced at

    high altitudes and in the early morning at sites which are well inland.

    Some of the hazards of cold weather are as follows:-

    - There are more likely to be accidents if the temperature of the hands falls

    below 15 Celsius: there is loss of concentration and coordination.

    - Workers repeatedly using vibratory tools such as rock drills may suffer

    white finger syndrome involving sensory loss as a consequence of cold.

    - Prolonged exposure to temperatures around freezing may cause frostbite

    or hypothermia.

    - Wind can affect temperature. When the air temperature is 10 Celsius

    and the wind speed is 32 km per hour, the temperature, so far as the

    body is concerned, falls to freezing. This is called the chill factor.

    - Even where the temperature is above freezing point, a condition called

    immersion foot can occur in wet conditions if the feet are not kept dry.

  • AAWW 110011 OOCCCCUUPPAATTIIOONNAALL SSAAFFEETTYY AANNDD HHEEAALLTTHH CChhaapp 44

    | Prepared by : Azween Irma Bt Zainal

    13

    How to keep warm.

    Choose clothing which allows moisture to escape but does not allow wind and

    rain to penetrate: waterproof clothing tends to prevent evaporation of moisture.

    Avoid bulky clothes, as they hamper movement- a number of layer of clothing

    are preferred.

    Hands and feet are particularly susceptible to cold

    Use facilities for preparing hot meals and drinks, and for storing and drying

    clothing.

    4.4.4 Measuinge Noise And Hearing Quality

    Sound is what we hear

    Noise is unwanted sound especially a loud and undesireable one and it can be

    hazardous to a persons hearing if he or she is exposed long and often enough.

    There are three (3) major types of noise in a workplace:-

    Continuous : constant and stable noise over period of time, e.g. from grinder,

    boiler or powered equipment.

    Intermittent : has perceptible gaps between repetition.

    Impulse : short burst or loud which last than one second, e.g. from impact

    tools, punch presses or use of explosion.

  • AAWW 110011 OOCCCCUUPPAATTIIOONNAALL SSAAFFEETTYY AANNDD HHEEAALLTTHH CChhaapp 44

    | Prepared by : Azween Irma Bt Zainal

    14

    Example of common workplace which exposed to excessive noise level are:

    Manufacturing

    Process industries

    Foundries

    Mining

    Logging area

    Excavation work

    Construction

    Farms

    Airport

    Pubs

    Noise effect types:-

    Auditory Effect

    - Exposure to prolonged and excessive noise level can cause chronic

    noise induced hearing loss, which is permanent sensorineural

    condition that cannot be treated medically.

    - It is initially characterized by declining sensitivity to high frequency

    sounds, usually at frequencies above 2000Hz.

    - The hearing loss proceeds for lower frequency sounds. If the

    exposure continuous for long period of time it can result in

    permanent hearing loss.

    - In this case, the nerves hair eventually die. Other symptom

    experienced is rising sound in the ears (tinnitus).

    - On the other hand, short exposure to extremely loud noise (above

    140d(B)) such as in an explosion, can cause instant deafness due to

    mechanical rupture of eardrum or dislocation of the bones in the

    middle ear.

    Non- Auditory Effect

    - Interference with communication and efficiency

    Exposure to excessive noise level can cause difficulty in

    communication as well as fatigue.

    This can be a major problem in an emergency situation and

    will result in accident at workplace.

    It can also affect efficiency of worker either as a result of

    communication loss or by loss of concentration.

  • AAWW 110011 OOCCCCUUPPAATTIIOONNAALL SSAAFFEETTYY AANNDD HHEEAALLTTHH CChhaapp 44

    | Prepared by : Azween Irma Bt Zainal

    15

    Psychosocial effect.

    Noise can be a source of annoyance, irritation and increased

    stress.

    Equipment to measure noise and hearing quality

    Sound level meter ( to measure sound and noise directly)

    Using disable A or dB(A) as a unit

    Not adequate to measure the noise exposure to the workers

    Dosimeter Noise

    Measure sound dose received by workers that collected along

    measurements.

    Wearing the dosimeter microphone to the workers ears

    Using the percentage dose as a unit.

  • AAWW 110011 OOCCCCUUPPAATTIIOONNAALL SSAAFFEETTYY AANNDD HHEEAALLTTHH CChhaapp 44

    | Prepared by : Azween Irma Bt Zainal

    16

  • AAWW 110011 OOCCCCUUPPAATTIIOONNAALL SSAAFFEETTYY AANNDD HHEEAALLTTHH CChhaapp 44

    | Prepared by : Azween Irma Bt Zainal

    17

    4.5 Appreciate the proper and safe methods of ergonomics in the workplace

    4.5.1 Practice the proper and safe methods of ergonomics in the

    workplace including working position, workplace design, standing bench

    and computer arrangement.

    Sitting position

    The best way to reduce pressure in the back is to be in a standing position. However,

    there are times when you need to sit. When sitting, the main part of the body weight is

    transferred to the seat. Some weight is also transferred to the floor, back rest, and

    armrests. Where the weight is transferred is the key to a good seat design. When the

    proper areas are not supported, sitting in a seat all day can put unwanted pressure on

    the back causing pain.

    The lumbar (bottom five vertebrate in the spine) needs to be supported to decrease disc

    pressure. Providing both a seat back that inclines backwards and has a lumbar support is

    critical to prevent excessive low back pressures. The combination which minimizes

    pressure on the lower back is having a backrest inclination of 120 degrees and

    a lumbar support of 5 cm. The 120 degrees inclination means the angle between the

    seat and the backrest should be 120 degrees. The lumbar support of 5 cm means the

    chair backrest supports the lumbar by sticking out 5 cm in the lower back area. One

    drawback to creating an open body angle by moving the backrest backwards is that it

    takes ones body away from the tasking position, which typically involves leaning inward

    towards a desk or table. One solution to this problem can be found in the kneeling chair.

    A proper kneeling chair creates the open body angle by lowering the angle of the lower

    body, keeping the spine in alignment and the sitter properly positioned to task. The

    benefit of this position is that if one leans inward, the body angle remains 90 degrees or

    wider. One mis-perception regarding kneeling chairs is that the body's weight bears on

    the knees, and thus users with poor knees cannot use the chair. This misperception has

    led to a generation of kneeling chairs that attempt to correct this by providing a

    horizontal seating surface with an ancillary knee pad. This design wholly defeats the

    purpose of the chair. In a proper kneeling chair, some of the weight bears on the shins,

    not the knees, but the primary function of the shin rests (knee rests) are to keep one

    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lumbarhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kneeling_chair

  • AAWW 110011 OOCCCCUUPPAATTIIOONNAALL SSAAFFEETTYY AANNDD HHEEAALLTTHH CChhaapp 44

    | Prepared by : Azween Irma Bt Zainal

    18

    from falling forward out of the chair. Most of the weight remains on the buttocks.

    Another way to keep the body from falling forward is with a saddle seat. This type of

    seat is generally seen in some sit stand stools, which seek to emulate the riding or

    saddle position of a horseback rider, the first "job" involving extended periods of sitting.

    Another key to reducing lumbar disc pressure is the use of armrests. They help by

    putting the force of your body not entirely on the seat and back rest, but putting some

    of this pressure on the armrests. Armrest needs to be adjustable in height to assure

    shoulders are not overstressed.

  • AAWW 110011 OOCCCCUUPPAATTIIOONNAALL SSAAFFEETTYY AANNDD HHEEAALLTTHH CChhaapp 44

    | Prepared by : Azween Irma Bt Zainal

    19

  • AAWW 110011 OOCCCCUUPPAATTIIOONNAALL SSAAFFEETTYY AANNDD HHEEAALLTTHH CChhaapp 44

    | Prepared by : Azween Irma Bt Zainal

    20

  • AAWW 110011 OOCCCCUUPPAATTIIOONNAALL SSAAFFEETTYY AANNDD HHEEAALLTTHH CChhaapp 44

    | Prepared by : Azween Irma Bt Zainal

    21

    Employee Guidelines for Safer Lifting

    The use of stretching is appropriate as part of a comprehensive ergonomic program.

    Stretching must not be used in place of engineering and/or administrative

    improvements.

    Check for tags on loads.

    Before lifting, always test the load for stability and weight.

    For loads that are unstable and/or heavy, follow management guidelines for:

    -Equipment use

    -Reducing the weight of the load

    -Repacking containers to increase stability

    Plan the lift:

    -Wear appropriate shoes to avoid slips, trips, or falls.

    -If you wear gloves, choose the size that fits properly. Depending on the material

    the gloves are made of and the number of pairs worn at once, more force may

    be needed to grasp and hold objects. For example, wearing a single pair of heat-

    resistant gloves can reduce your grip strength up to 40 percent. Wearing two or

    more pairs of gloves at once can reduce your grip strength up to 60 percent. -Lift

    only as much as you can safely handle by yourself.

    -Keep the lifts in your power zone (i.e., above the knees, below the shoulders,

    and close to the body), if possible.

    -Use extra caution when lifting loads that may be unstable.

    When lifting:

    -Get a secure grip.

    -Use both hands whenever possible.

    -Avoid jerking by using smooth, even motions.

    -Keep the load as close to the body as possible.

    -To the extent feasible use your legs to push up and lift the load, not the upper

    body or back.

    -Do not twist your body. Step to one side or the other to turn.

    -Alternate heavy lifting or forceful exertion tasks with less physically demanding

    tasks.

    -Take rest breaks.

  • AAWW 110011 OOCCCCUUPPAATTIIOONNAALL SSAAFFEETTYY AANNDD HHEEAALLTTHH CChhaapp 44

    | Prepared by : Azween Irma Bt Zainal

    22

  • AAWW 110011 OOCCCCUUPPAATTIIOONNAALL SSAAFFEETTYY AANNDD HHEEAALLTTHH CChhaapp 44

    | Prepared by : Azween Irma Bt Zainal

    23

    ACTIVITES AND EXERCISE

    SECTION A :OBJECTIVE

    1. Every dieses has its own symptoms, for MSD symptoms are as follows EXCEPT:- a. Numbness or a burning sensation in the hand b. Swelling or stiffness in the joints c. Aching or tingling d. Pale in face

    2. MSD can be caused by any of the following factors EXCEPT:-

    a. If the lower back support is inadequate for the user

    b. If the user continues to sit in the same position for an extended period of

    time

    c. If the set up of the workstation is ergonomically poor

    d. If the user seat at the ergonomically designed chair.

    3. The different types of MSD are as follows EXCEPT:-

    a. Repetitive Stain Injury b. Carpel Tunnel Syndrome c. Ergonomic Problems d. Stroke

    4. IAQ is an acronym of:-

    a. Indoor Air Quality b. Indoor Airway Quality c. Indoor Air Quantity d. Indoor Airway Quantity

    5. Causes of Poor IAQ are as follows EXCEPT:-

    a. Temperature b. Ventilation c. Humidity d. Window Openings

  • AAWW 110011 OOCCCCUUPPAATTIIOONNAALL SSAAFFEETTYY AANNDD HHEEAALLTTHH CChhaapp 44

    | Prepared by : Azween Irma Bt Zainal

    24

    6.

    The above are the effects of:-

    a. Poor IAQ b. Poor Temperature & Humidity c. Noise and Hearing Quality d. Poor Lighting & Sightedness

    7. There are three (3) major types of noise at the workplace which is a. Short term, continuous and impose b. Short term, intermitted and impose c. Continuous, intermitted and impulse d. Continuous, short term and impulse

    8.

    The above are the effects of:-

    a. Poor IAQ b. Poor Temperature & Humidity c. Noise and Hearing Quality d. Poor Lighting & Sightedness

    9. Rearrange the proper way of lifting.

    i) Return to an upright position by pushing up with your legs and buttocks ii) Bend your knees and squat down to a comfortable level. iii) Lift the object and bring up close to your body.

    a. I, ii, iii b. Iii, ii, i c. Ii, iii, i d. Ii, I, iii

    Health effects Lower Productivity Loss In Revenue Negative Corporate Image

    Auditory Effects Non- Auditory Effects Psychosocial Effects

  • AAWW 110011 OOCCCCUUPPAATTIIOONNAALL SSAAFFEETTYY AANNDD HHEEAALLTTHH CChhaapp 44

    | Prepared by : Azween Irma Bt Zainal

    25

    10.

    The above statement is the way how

    a. To keep cool b. To keep warm c. To keep healthy d. To keep ergonomics

    SECTION B: TRUE/FALSE

    a. The term ergonomics is derived from the Greek words ergon [work] and nomos [natural

    laws] (TRUE/FALSE)

    b. Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) can affect the body's muscles, joints, tendons, ligaments

    and nerves (TRUE/FALSE)

    c. General precautions to avoid MSD is Avoiding gripping your mouse too tightly it is

    always recommended to hold the mouse lightly and click gently (TRUE/FALSE)

    d. Sick Building Syndrome - Sick building syndrome (SBS) not confined to local buildings and

    has been a problem for years globally (TRUE/FALSE)

    e. Artificial lighting should be placed to avoid deep shadow-these may conceal hazards

    which would be obvious in good light. (TRUE/FALSE)

    f. Cold is not just uncomfortable it may affect health and judgement. Although not a

    serious problem in tropical climates, it may nevertheless be experienced at high

    altitudes and in the early morning at sites which are well inland. (TRUE/FALSE)

    g. To keep warm Avoid wearing tight clothes or those which prevent evaporation of

    perspiration such as some plastic materials. (TRUE/FALSE)

    Keep out of direct sunlight

    Avoid unnecessary quick movement

    Add salt to food or eat food that contain natural salt.

    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Musclehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jointhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tendonhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nerve

  • AAWW 110011 OOCCCCUUPPAATTIIOONNAALL SSAAFFEETTYY AANNDD HHEEAALLTTHH CChhaapp 44

    | Prepared by : Azween Irma Bt Zainal

    26

    h. To keep cool -Choose clothing which allows moisture to escape but does not allow wind

    and rain to penetrate: waterproof clothing tends to prevent evaporation of moisture.

    (TRUE/FALSE)

    i. Sound level meter Measure sound dose received by workers that collected along

    measurement.. (TRUE/FALSE)

    j. Dosimeter Noise ( to measure sound and noise directly) Using disable A or dB(A) as a unit

    (TRUE/FALSE)

    SECTION C : SUBJECTIVE

    a. What are the objectives of ergonomics?

    b. What do you understand about the ergonomic risk?

    c. Explain briefly about the effects of poor Indoor Air Quality below:-

    i. Health effects ii. Lower productivity iii. Lose in revenue iv. Negative corporate image

    d. Explain about :-

    i. Temperature and Humidity ii. Noise and Hearing Quality iii. Lighting and Sightedness

    e. Explain briefly the right way of lifting.