Assembly - December 2008 - (Page 54) Workstations “There have been improvements [in workstation design] over the years, but I don’t really think the core ergonomic principles have shifted,” Verrill points out. “The overall goal is still to design a useful workstation that caters to an operator’s physical build, working comfort and any possible limitations.” Unfortunately, the health risks that are caused by repeated motions on assembly lines, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis and lower back pain, have not disappeared as ergonomics has become more widespread. And, as the U.S. workforce gets older, the number of incidents may start to rise again. Indeed, NCCI data indicates that carpal tunnel syndrome claimants tend to be older and that the severity of the incidents often rises with age. USING TECHNO AUTOMATION IES SER B1 RV Stock Lengths Up To 3 Meters AGE VOY Custom Lengths Up To 6 Meters All Steel Profile Rail For High Load Capacity 50mm Wide Steel Reinforced Belt For Heavy Loads Ergonomics is better understood now than it was 10 years ago. Photo courtesy IAC Industries Inc. VISIT OUR WEBSITE at www.technoautomation.com GANTRY TABLE DOWNLOAD 3D MODELS REQUEST FREE CATALOGS XY or XYZ 12 Series Glue Dispensing Assembly Inspection Pick & Place “An important trend to consider is the aging workforce,” explains Greissinger. “As the average working age increases, correctly designed ergonomic workstations would not necessarily require change to accommodate the workers. “What would require consideration are the cumulative stresses and loads that a person experiences throughout the course of a workday,” says Greissinger. “If the products being handled cannot be made lighter, then the frequency and duration of the handling must be reduced to accommodate the loss of strength and bone density.” Lean Influence In recent years, ergonomics has become less of a standalone discipline and more of a lean manufacturing initiative. “Ergonomic principles are consistent with the goals of lean manufacturing, such as waste reduction and simplified movement,” says Elleby. “Lean manufacturing focuses on using the minimum amount of resources to complete a project on time.” Quarterman Lee, president of Strategos Inc. (Kansas City, MO), says lean QUALITY Linear Motion Systems AFFORDABLE Techno Inc. SINCE 1986 1-800-819-3366 www.technoautomation.com 54 ASSEMBLY / December 2008 www.assemblymag.com http://www.technoautomation.com http://www.technoautomation.com http://www.technoautomation.com http://www.assemblymag.com
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