Site-Wide Solutions

Site-wide solutions are solutions that are applicable to all or most areas of the shipyard. These solutions include task lighting, point-of-use tool boards and rigging racks, and standing platforms.

Task Lighting

Task lighting involves positioning lights directly over a work area or equipment, or both. Task lighting serves to reduce awkward neck and back position that are often required in low lighting conditions to get close enough to the work to view it. Lights mounted on adjustable arms allow accurate positioning and can help avoid shadows and glare.

Point-of-Use Tool Boards and Rigging Racks

Point-of-use tool boards and rigging racks are devices that position work between the worker's knees and shoulders. These devices provide easy access to tools and materials, reduce time required to untangle parts, and reduce forceful exertions to pull tangled tools apart. Workers should remember to arrange tools so that the most frequently used tools are within easy reach.

Point-of-use tool boards and rigging racks can be used any time the work, tools, or equipment are positioned in the following ways:

• Farther than an arm's reach
• Lower than the knees
• Above the shoulders

Standing Platforms

Standing platforms are small platforms or benches that can be easily transported to the work area. Platforms provide more stability for the body posture, and may decrease the risk of injury when the task involves doing overhead work. In addition, platforms may reduce the amount of overhead work that can cause shoulder and neck fatigue.

When possible, employees should work with their hands between waist and shoulder height.

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