NIOSH Mining Training Package


Ergonomics and Risk Factor Awareness

2008

See also: NIOSH mining products
Audience: Mine Trainers and Health and Safety Professionals
Installation Notes: Download and extract the ZIP file to a folder on your hard disk. Start by opening the file called "READ ME.txt" in the root directory.
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ZIP
213.64 MB

ergonomics logoErgonomics is the science of fitting the work task to the user. It seeks to prevent serious injury by considering designs that accommodate the abilities and limitations of people. Many workers perform tasks that involve exposure to ergonomic risk factors. Musculoskeletal disorders resulting from such exposure account for one-third of all occupational injuries and illnesses reported to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Musculoskeletal disorders are a type of injury that can take a long time to develop, they are a cumulative type of injury, and are associated with more lost time and higher compensation costs than other types of injuries. Exposures to risk factors can lead to the development of permanent, disabling injuries, and illnesses that may prevent workers from returning to their jobs and performing simple tasks that are part of their everyday routine. Reducing and eliminating risk factors will lead to healthier employees.

The overall objective of Ergonomics and Risk Factor Awareness Training is to help reduce injuries and illnesses resulting from exposures to risk factors. The training is designed specifically for the mining industry and should increase awareness of risk factors and encourage miners to take action to report and reduce their exposures to risk factors. This training package includes two components:

  1. Ergonomics and Risk Factor Awareness Training for Instructors - designed to give instructors sufficient information about ergonomics and risk factors to allow them to adequately present similar training to employees.
  2. Ergonomics and Risk Factor Awareness Training Guide - an assist to instructors in conducting the training.
Page last updated: October 31, 2008
Page last reviewed: October 31, 2008
Content Source: National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Mining Division