Ergonomics for the Prevention of Musculoskeletal Disorders: Guidelines for Shipyards

OSHA 3341-03N ? Ergonomics for the Prevention of Musculoskeletal Disorders: Guidelines for Shipyards. Many proactive initiatives taken by the shipyard industry have resulted in a reduction in injuries and illnesses. Shipyards have reported that many shipyard tasks are performed in awkward body postures, at nonadjustable workstations, on scaffolds, and in enclosed or confined spaces (1, 2, 3). Even in this environment, the shipbuilding industry has found ways to make shipyard work easier through ergonomic solutions. However, the industry still has higher injury rates than general industry and construction (4). More remains to be learned about the relationship between workplace activities and the development of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Continuing research and operational experience will provide additional information that will assist in designing further recommendations for reducing the potential for MSDs in workplaces. However, the experiences of numerous shipyards that have successfully addressed this important issue have provided a sufficient basis for taking action to better protect employees. These guidelines provide recommendations for shipyards to help reduce the number and severity of work-related musculoskeletal disorders, increase employer and employee awareness of ergonomic risk factors, eliminate unsafe work practices, alleviate muscle fatigue, and increase productivity. In order to develop these guidelines, OSHA reviewed existing ergonomic practices in several shipyards, conducted site visits to observe these practices in action, and interviewed employees in shipyards. Many shipyards addressed ergonomic issues by integrating ergonomics into their overall health and safety programs (1, 2, 3). In addition, the Agency reviewed available scientific information regarding shipyard work activities that may benefit from implementing specific ergonomic solutions. The general information in these guidelines is intended to provide shipyard employers and employees with effective solutions and a useful reference when determining the need for ergonomic assistance for specific jobs in the shop, yard, or on board a ship. The recommendations and information presented here are intended as general guidelines - a flexible framework to be adapted to the needs and resources of each individual shipyard. Boat builders who make sailboats or small recreational powerboats are not addressed in these guidelines. However, those industries may find in this document some approaches to help address ergonomic concerns. The ideas presented in these guidelines may also be beneficial in other industries with metal forming and assembly operations. OSHA realizes that some shipyards, particularly small ones, may need help with the implementation of some of the ergonomic solutions. They may need assistance in setting up a plan to implement an appropriate ergonomics process and to make recommended solutions applicable to their individual situations. Therefore, OSHA emphasizes the availability of its free consultation services to address these needs. The heart of these guidelines is the description of various solutions that have been implemented by shipyards. OSHA recommends that shipyards consider these solutions in the context of a systematic process that includes the elements described in the pages that follow. Such a process will make it more likely that the solutions implemented in a particular workplace will be successful in reducing injuries and will be cost effective. These guidelines expand on these recommendations, and include additional information that employers can use to identify problems and train employees. This document includes an introduction; a process for protecting employees; solutions that employers can use to help reduce MSDs in shipyards which are of particular value; and additional sources of information on ergonomics in shipyards.