Running head: UNIT I HOMEWORK 1 Unit I Homework Brett Jones Columbia Southern University February 27, 2017 UNIT I HOMEWORK 2 Question #1 Ergonomics focuses on the physical interaction between people and their work station. The design and layout of a work station plays a very critical role in the elimination of problems related to improper postures among other injuries (Gagne, EET, CFE, NADEP, 2011). Some of the most primary concerns in the design of a work station include musculoskeletal injuries, fatigue and glare from poor lighting. My study station is comprised of a chair, a table, a foot rest, a computer, and a reading lamp. If not properly designed, these components can result into ergonomic problems which can affect the body in a very detrimental way. It is therefore important to ensure that the design and layout is appropriate for use within minimal injuries or discomfort. The chair should be adjustable in such a way that it can be moved to support the lower back of the body. The height of the chair should be set in such a way that I can easily interact with the keyboard of my computer. The footrest should allow me to reach the floor comfortably and work on the computer easily. My feet should be able to reach the ground and relax. The computer keyboard and the table should be at a level that I can easily work. The keyboard should be adjustable to allow flexible positioning. The lighting should be glare free to avoid visual fatigue. If not properly, ergonomics can have very negative effects in the long term. Poor lighting and glare can cause visual problems. Poor ergonomics can also cause musculoskeletal injuries, unnecessary fatigue, nerve disorders and lower back pains (Gagne, EET, CFE, NADEP, 2011). Question #2 The kind of work that Amy does seems to be quite strenuous as described. The employee is prone to a number of injuries and it is therefore important to ensure that she is fully protected UNIT I HOMEWORK 3 from such eventualities. Some of the areas that Amy is likely to be injured in her workstation include muscles and backs, fingers, elbows, shoulders and cuffs. Some of the possible injuries in these areas include muscles and back injuries, trigger fingers from the use of single fingers, rotator cuff injuries, and epicondylitis from repeated strain of the elbow. The employer should ensure that employees such as Amy are completely protected from such hazards. First, the employees should not work on a single station for long hours. The employer should introduce rotation programs in the workplace. The cash registers and the conveyors should be designed in such a way that they are slanting, so that the cashier can slide the items down for easy packaging (OSHA, 2004). This will help to eliminate the excessive lifting. The employees should also be educated on proper handling techniques of various items at the store. This way, they will be in a much better position to handle their tasks, with minimal injuries to themselves. In tasks that involve heavy lifting, it is important that the employees are educated on proper lifting techniques (OSHA, 2004). Finally, employees should not work for long hours without a break. Question #3 The information given that Adam is 25 years of age and of Caucasian origin, also his BMI is within the 50th percentile can be used to determine the various aspects of him. He has an average weight of 50 kg and 58 inches in height. He has a body circumference 35 inches of and a BMI of 23. A BMI value of this level is considered as being of normal weight. The fact that Adam works in an automotive firms means that he needs to be fit. The employer would be interested in his weight, his body circumference as well as his BMI. The job involves strenuous UNIT I HOMEWORK 4 lifting and therefore he must be healthy enough to handle these heavy tasks. In my opinion, the details gathered show that indeed he is fit to work in the automobile industry. UNIT I HOMEWORK 5 References R.Gagne, EET, CFE, NADEP (2011) Workplace Injuries Associated with Grocery Store Workers: Prevention and Reduction in Loss Time, Fit2work Educational series. OSHA (2004) Guidelines for Retail Grocery Stores: Ergonomics for the Prevention of Musculoskeletal Disorders; Available at: http://www.osha.gov/ergonomics/guidelines/retailgrocery/retailgrocery.html