Comprehensive Online Ergonomics Training to Boost Workplace Safety
Written by Michael Purser | Edited by Nate Bortz
Quality workplace ergonomics can be the difference between comfort and chronic injury. Poorly designed equipment and uncomfortable workspaces can lead to costly rehabilitation or lifelong disabilities for affected workers.
This article will explain the advantages of education, demonstrate the benefits of purposeful design and show you how to find online programs for your team.
What Are Ergonomics?
Ergonomics, also sometimes called human factors, is a relatively recent science that studies how humans interact with tools and machines. The first U.S. group to study the impact of industrial design on the human body, called The Human Factors Society, was founded in 1957 after World War II introduced newly sophisticated machines and weaponry.
The field has come a long way from its post-war origins. Groups ranging from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) have a vested interest in improving the way Americans sit, move and interact with tools at work by studying ergonomic principles.
Hazards and Consequences
Unlike electrocution, fire hazards or falling, hazards involving workplace ergonomics tend to be small, subtle and repeated. A poorly set-up workstation might slowly lead from sore neck muscles at the end of the day to a major musculoskeletal disorder over time.
These concerns are not limited to desk jobs. Employees in warehouses, hospitals, factories and many other environments are also at risk of injury. Common issues include lifting with the back instead of the legs or straining from lifting an overly heavy load.
One improper lift can lead to spinal injury or torn muscles.
Careless employers may face mounting workers' compensation claims or even significant fines for neglecting ergonomics in the office. While there is no specific OSHA standard for ergonomics, such concerns are covered under the administration's General Duty Clause.
Employers can improve workplace ergonomics with little investment. The best way to start is with high-quality ergonomics awareness training for employees.
OSHA Education Center Ergonomics Training Programs
A brief online training course may be all it takes to protect against poor posture, repeat stress injuries and more. Our high-quality online ergonomics programs are simple, convenient and available from any internet-connected device.
Here are a few courses that focus on the importance of the human factor at work:
Industrial Ergonomics
This foundational course is a good starting point to get employees thinking about the way they sit, stand and work on the jobsite. Emphasis is placed on chronic health risks like carpal tunnel syndrome and lower back pain. Completing the course awards an ergonomics Certificate of Completion.
Materials Handling Safety
Focus on the way workers move, stack and store supplies with a primer on materials handling. Learn how to safely lift heavy or awkward loads, use tools like pallet jacks and avoid injuries arising from violations of OSHA materials handling standards. This course is available in English and Spanish and awards a Certificate of Completion.
OSHA 10
While there is no official OSHA certification in ergonomics, human factors are an important part of the official Outreach Training Program offered by OSHA and the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). This general-purpose safety training is designed to protect workers in both construction and general industry roles. Completing this valuable OSHA-authorized training program provides students with an official DOL OSHA 10 card.
Protect Yourself Today
Human factors are an important part of every worker's health. Don't waste time or wait until you or your employees suffer a major musculoskeletal injury. Enroll in one of the convenient courses above or explore our extensive course catalog to find the online workplace safety instruction you need to stay safe on the job.
All our courses are available 24/7 from any internet-connected device. We use video lessons, audio narration and interactive activities to help students understand and retain course material. Train at your pace to master OSHA standards, avoid workplace hazards and learn new skills.
Bulk discounts and enterprise solutions are available for employers who need to train staff of any size, from 10 to 10,000 employees. Start today!