Ergonomics Program Components
- Workstation assessment: Evaluate employee workstations for ergonomic risk factors
- Equipment modification: Adjust or replace equipment to reduce ergonomic risk
- Job rotation: Rotate employees through tasks to reduce repetitive motion injuries
- Training: Educate employees on proper lifting, posture, and ergonomic principles
- Early intervention: Identify and treat early-stage MSK symptoms before they become serious injuries
- Return-to-work programs: Facilitate early return to work after MSK injuries
Ergonomics ROI
Ergonomics programs consistently demonstrate ROI of 3:1 to 5:1. A manufacturing company that invests $100,000 in ergonomics improvements typically saves $300,000–$500,000 in reduced workers' comp claims, reduced health plan costs, and improved productivity.
Integrating Ergonomics with Health Benefits
IQ Insight
Ergonomics programs and health benefits strategy are typically managed by different departments — safety and HR — and rarely coordinated. Integrating these programs creates significant synergies. An ergonomics program that reduces MSK injury rates reduces both workers' comp costs and health plan costs. An early intervention program that identifies MSK symptoms early reduces both the severity of injuries and the likelihood of surgery.