Addressing Reports of Injuries

The goal of an ergonomics process is to ensure timely evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of MSDs. By addressing reports of injuries on a timely basis, the shipyard management can prevent future MSDs in those specific jobs where injuries occur most often and are most severe. Including healthcare providers in the shipyard ergonomic efforts also helps return employees to work more quickly and successfully.

As a part of the ergonomics process, addressing reports of injuries accomplishes each of the following:

• Reinforces employee training on the recognition of the indications of MSDs and the necessary procedures for reporting potential injuries
• Encourages employees to report MSDs and potential MSDs early
• Helps ensure prompt medical evaluation, medical care, and follow-up care (including rehabilitation services when available)
• Provides guidance for job modifications, restrictions, or alternative jobs for injured employees

Early reporting and diagnosis of, and interventions for MSDs can limit injury severity, improve effectiveness of treatment, minimize the likelihood of permanent damage, and reduce workers' compensation claims. Work accommodations and alternative duty tasks will help employees recover faster so that they can return to their usual job without restrictions and risk of re-injury.

Healthcare providers in shipyards should remain knowledgeable about shipyard operations and work practices by conducting periodic, systematic workplace walkthroughs to observe workplace conditions and processes. In this way, healthcare providers can identify potential alternative jobs for injured employees, and can maintain close contact with all of the employees.

To learn more about Ergonomics visit our Shipyard Ergonomics Online Training web page.