Providing Training

Training, to ensure that employees are informed about ergonomic concerns in the workplace and ways to minimize the risk of injury, is another important element of the ergonomics process. Training prepares employees for active participation in the ergonomics process, including identifying potential problems, implementing solutions, and evaluating the process. Effective training includes the following:

• Proper use of equipment, tools, and machine controls
• Safe work practices, including proper lifting techniques
• Awareness of work tasks that may lead to pain or injury
• Recognition of MSDs and their early indications
• Addressing early indications of MSDs before serious injury develops
• Shipyard procedures for reporting work-related injuries and illnesses as required by OSHA's injury and illness recording and reporting regulation (29 CFR 1904)

Employees will benefit from orientation and hands-on training received prior to starting tasks with potential ergonomic risk factors. Employees should also be notified of workplace changes, instructed on using new equipment, and notified of new work procedures.

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