Work simplification is defined as the use of equipment, ergonomics, functional planning and behaviour modification to reduce the physical and psychological stresses on the body of activities at home or work. By reducing the physical demands on the body during tasks acts to preserve the joints and reduce the risk of injury or re-injury (Glanze, Anderson & Anderson 1990).
Within the workplace some simple guidelines can be used regarding task set up, equipment storage, work techniques and routines than can assist in reducing the physical strain on the body.
Workplace solutions and adjustments
Modifying the workplace layout and equipment
- store heavier and frequently used items at waist level
- set up work tasks to avoid twisting of the spine, bending forwards or reaching away from the body
use tools or mechanical equipment to reduce the physical force required to complete tasks, for instance, trolleys, jacks & cranes
store infrequently used equipment below mid thigh height or above shoulder height
can the tasks be done from a sitting or standing position or rotated to allow postural change?
can a stepladder be used to access higher items and reduce the need for over the shoulder reaching?
Modifying loads lifted
- can large loads be broken down into smaller loads to reduce the impact on the body?
- can the load be lifted with two hands rather than one?
- can handles on loads be altered to make it easier to carry the load?
- can loads be carried safely against the body to allow the larger muscles of the legs to support the load rather than the smaller muscles of the arms?
- can the load be lifted using a team lift?
- remember it is more physically demanding to grip smaller items or large items with the hand at full stretch.
Controlling the work environment
- is there plenty of space so bending, reaching and twisting can be eliminated during tasks—if not, how can it be changed? (sometimes shifting tasks far enough away that the worker has to walk or move their body means they will do the task in a better posture than if they can keep their feet still and twist or reach).
- is the lighting sufficient so that individuals are not having to lean towards a task to view it or strain the eyes?
- if using the trolleys, consider the size and type of wheels, for instance, larger wheels will make the trolley easier to move.
Redesigning work practices
- to allow postural change, can the tasks within the job be rotated or distributed between different employees?
- can stretch breaks be built into the work routine especially before and after physically demanding tasks?
(WorkSafe 2006)
References
Glanze, W.D.(Ed), Anderson, K.N. (Ed) & Anderson, L. E. (Ed) 1990, Mosby’s Medical, Nursing, & Allied Health Dictionary, 3rd edn, The C.V. Mosby Company, St Louis.
WorkSafe 2006, Code of Practice for Manual Handling, Government of Western Australia Department of Consumer and Employment Protection (DOCEP), Perth, viewed 6 July 2007, http://www.worksafe.wa.gov.au/newsite/worksafe/media/pdf/codes/Code_manual_handling.pdf