Definition And Examples Of Ergonomics “Administrative Controls”
Administrative Controls
Administrative improvements include changing work practices or the way work is organized. They may not address the reasons for the contributing factors or other problems.
Administrative improvements usually require continual management and employee feedback to ensure that the new practices and policies are effective. Below are some best practices for the workplace:
- Alternate heavy tasks with light tasks.
- Provide variety in jobs to eliminate or reduce repetition using two primary strategies: Job rotation – rotating employees through different jobs & Job enlargement – increasing the variety by combining two or more jobs or adding tasks to a job.
- Adjust work schedules, work pace, or work practices. Limit the amount of time any employee must spend performing a “problem job.” Job hardening suggests new workers who are not used to the physical demands of the job should be gradually introduced to a normal work pace.
- Provide recovery time – recovery periods (i.e., muscle relaxation periods) can help prevent fatigue and injury to muscles.
- Modify work practices so that workers perform work within their midrange or power zone (i.e., above the knees, below the shoulders, and close to the body).
- Require that heavy loads are only lifted by two people to limit force exertion.
- Establish systems so workers are rotated away from tasks to minimize the duration of continual exertion, repetitive motions, and awkward postures. Design a job rotation system in which employees rotate between jobs that use different muscle groups.
- Staff “floaters” to provide periodic breaks between scheduled breaks.
- Properly use and maintain pneumatic and power tools.
Good Housekeeping: Regular housekeeping to eliminate clutter can reduce reaching, bending, or twisting when handling materials, tools, or objects. Keeping floor surfaces dry and free of obstructions helps eliminate slipping and tripping hazards.
Maintenance: Regular maintenance of tools and equipment can help reduce or prevent problems in work tasks. For example, keeping cutting or drilling tools sharpened and in good condition can reduce the amount of force and repetition required when using the tools.
Exercise and stretching: Long-term, sensible exercise, and stretching have many benefits, which may include better health and reduced injuries. New, returning or injured employees should gradually increase their physical activity.
Cooperation: Get help when needed to handle heavy loads. Some companies set weight limits (like 50 pounds) above which a helper is required.