Ergonomics Program

Quick Access Links:

Office Ergonomics
Field Ergonomics
Safety in Motion (SIM4 / SIM-plicity)
Work-Related Ergonomic Injuries

What Is Ergonomics?

Ergonomics is the science of matching the job to the worker; it’s about making the environment fit you.

The ergonomics program at PSU is in place to support a healthy work environment by reducing strain associated with:

• Forceful exertions
• Repetitive motions
• Awkward or static postures

Discomfort that is associated with these factors can be reduced by neutral body position, workspace arrangement, and use of recovery periods.

Office Ergonomics

Too much time sitting or standing, poor postures, and task/workstation design can have a negative impact on your musculoskeletal system. In particular, sedentary working environments, such as office or desk work, have been shown to negatively impact the body and lead to:

• Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs)
• Increased fatigue
• Low productivity
• Damage to nerves
• Spinal disc degeneration

Working Remotely

When working remotely we are more likely to encounter conditions which cause awkward postures and poor ergonomics. On average, employees working from home move less than employees working in the office. 

At home, you’re likely spending more time in a stationary position and in an awkward/stressful posture. 

The training video and self-assessment are a great place to start, and EHS has created this Ergonomics While Working Remotely: Working From Home Guide for some additional tips. 

Virtual assessments of your remote workspace are also available if you are in need of additional assistance. 

Additional Assistance

Learn how to set up your workspace by watching this Office Ergonomics training video from SAIF.

Perform this self-assessment of your workspace. 

If you have additional concerns and would like to request an assessment of your work station, you may submit a work order online or by calling 5-2FIX.

Please note that EHS is not conducting in-person assessments at this time. Assessments will be conducted virtually whether they are for a workstation at home or in the office. 

Thinking of purchasing new ergonomic furniture and/or equipment for your department or office areas? Reach out to EHS’s Ergonomic Specialist or submit a work order for a consultation.

Desk Exercises to Help Prevent Muscle Pain

Resources

3 Tips to Staying Productive, Active, and Healthy While Working From Home
Kensington - 10 Desk Exercises That'll Help You Prevent Muscle Pain
OR-OSHA Ergonomics Page 
SAIF Corporation Ergonomics in the Workplace

Field Ergonomics

The focus of field ergonomics is typically on reducing ergonomic hazards related to material handling (including lifting), awkward work postures, exposure to vibration, and environmental risk factors such as noise, lighting, and temperature. 

The top three field ergonomic risk factors are repetitive motions, application of force (both dynamic and static), and vibration.

It is estimated that 90% of musculoskeletal disorders could be eliminated by applying ergonomic intervention strategies that reduce material handling forces, frequency, and duration of static or awkward postures and highly repetitive motions. 

Lower back disorders are particularly common with employees working in the field. Leading causes include:

• Lifting (with heavy loads and/or high repetitions)
• Prolonged stooping (being bent over)
• Twisting of the torso

Lifting injuries make up 60% of material handling injuries and 83% of low back injuries occur in the first second of a lift from a bent position. 

Follow these three basic principles when performing any lift:

• Plan the lift
• Keep the load close
• Lift smart by maintaining a strong neutral position throughout the body

Safety in Motion

Safety in Motion (SIM4) is a versatile system consisting of four core training modules. The techniques covered in this training are proven to reduce physical stress and strain, boost balance and strength, and improve productivity. 

The SIM4 training is easy to understand, easy to remember, and easy to apply. 

The four core training modules include:

• Position Elbows Closer
• Use Mid-range Wrist Motions
• Leg Strength and Balance
• Lifting Options, Techniques, and Pace

Each core training module can be delivered in a 30-minute training session, or training can be provided on the 10 most important techniques in one 60-minute session (SIM-plicity training).

If you would like to learn more about SIM4 and how it can benefit you and your employees, or to schedule training, please contact EHS. A SIM4-trained EHS team member will reach out with more information. 

Additional Assistance

Use the Field Ergonomic Risk Factor Checklist to determine if your work task required ergonomic intervention. 

You may request a Field Ergonomic Assessment by submitting a work order online or by calling 5-2FIX. Be sure to provide a brief description of the task and specify if you are currently experiencing any pain and/or discomfort. 

Work-Related Ergonomic Injuries

Early intervention is extremely important for ergonomic injuries. It may prevent the progression of the injury into a larger issue and allows for a quicker recovery time. 

Early warning signs include fatigue and stiffness of a particular joint and pain/discomfort that may come and go. This may develop into continuous pain if/when no action is taken and may additionally progress into complete loss of function. 

Employees that may suspect they have developed a work-related ergonomics injury should submit an online injury report to Human Resources.

ADA-Qualified Disabilities

Human Resources may also assist departments that must provide accommodations for employees with ADA-qualified disabilities.  

You may request an accommodation through the Human Resources Employee Accommodations page.