Ergonomics

Snowplow operators in Canada: the unsung heroes of harsh winters

If you’ve ever driven through a snowstorm in the dark, you can begin to understand the challenges snowplow drivers face. Imagine being responsible for clearing a safe path on the snowy road’s edge while contending with traffic, disabled vehicles, people, fallen trees, powerlines, and wildlife. Add the irregular work hours, and the need to stay […]
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worker being instructed how to remove heavy pan from oven

When does “reinstructing the worker” help?

Some of our clients pass their strain/sprain injury reports to our ergonomists for review, investigation, or other support.  I have to say, every time I see the corrective action listed as “Reinstruct the worker,” I wince quietly. I imagine the supervisor sitting with the worker, who is in pain, and saying, “Next time, make sure […]
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ergonomics under the safety or engineering umbrella

Where does ergonomics belong – Safety or Engineering?

Most of our clients hire us because they need help to reduce sprain/strain injuries. We are typically contacted by the Human Resources department or, more specifically, Health and Safety. This is a natural consequence of the way most organizations see ergonomics: fitting work to people so strain/sprain injuries can be avoided. As we’ve pointed out […]
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3 images showing the effects of supportive footwear, heels, and barefeet

Elevate office comfort: The surprising impact of footwear on ergonomics

Office footwear may appear to be an unconventional topic for an ergonomics blog, but shoes are quite important in creating a comfortable and productive workspace. While industrial and non-slip footwear are more commonly associated with ergonomics, what you wear on your feet during office hours can impact your overall well-being and work efficiency. Why your […]
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How to get a strain/sprain injury at a perfectly-adjusted workstation

I can’t honestly say that I’ve suffered a strain/sprain injury, but I know the early signs when I see them. I have the advantage of an education and 30+ years of experience, so I’m able to avoid the progression of such an issue. (Physician, heal thyself! Ergonomist, fix thine workstation!) I can, however, report that, […]
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What is an ergonomist, and what do they do?

(Prefer to “watch” instead of read? Here’s the video: https://youtu.be/43lk-BSmGmI) At the most basic level, an ergonomist (much like a lifeguard) gets paid to watch people. In our case, we watch people work. Of course, most ergonomists would be insulted at the insinuation that “watch” is all we do, but that’s what people see us […]
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