Ergonomics done right^® Virtual Conference

Agenda

During this session, we looked at some new capabilities that drive data-informed, accurate predictions in real-time with minimal human intervention required for assessments.  We discussed the future of motion capture analysis, including the ability to predict postures with partial occlusion, using 2-dimensional video to identify 3-dimensional postures, and the ability to leverage machine learning for root cause analysis and improvement generation based on industry.

Attendees learned:

• the current state of motion capture and machine learning in ergonomics evaluations
• what’s coming next with machine learning in the ergonomics space
• how research can be leveraged in industry for a more comprehensive ergonomics program

This presentation highlighted their approach using the continuous improvement process Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA). By applying the principle of the PDCA cycle, the team was able to successfully launch the program and scale it across the massive facility.

The following topics were discussed:

• best practices for program development and execution
• strategies used to engage other key areas of an organization
• creative ways to find problems (or job tasks) that put a worker at a higher risk of developing a musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) injury and the strategies used to fix those areas. Examples will also be provided!
• the use of indicators to identify focus areas, such as lagging injury data, employee turnover, quality issues and physical limiters in employee selection (i.e., experienced, height/reach capabilities)

At the conclusion of this session, attendees were inspired to make creative workplace improvements at their organization.

Attendees learned:

• the necessary elements for managing ergonomics in a long cycle time operation (8-hours to 3-week)
• best practices and examples of how Spirit AeroSystems improved the workplace by developing effective solutions, even when there are few succinct workstations (often the product is the workstation)
• how a sustainable ergonomics program was managed across the Wichita, Kansas campus
• how Spirit AeroSystems engaged and supported personnel, including Industrial Engineers, Operations and the Lean teams

The presenters shared lessons-learned from each of their 20+ years of experience in ergonomics/injury prevention, and participants had time to ask questions as well.

Attendees were able to:

• describe the benefits of using a pilot effort to increase employee buy-in and management support for a larger scale ergonomics program
• identify which stage of ergonomics process maturity best describes their process and at least one program enhancement relevant to organizations in that maturity stage
• know how and when to effectively use each level of the hierarchy of controls while implementing an ergonomics process

So, how does ergonomics relate to DE&I? Well, ergonomics is defined as “designing the workplace to match human performance capabilities for the general working population.” A diverse, equitable, and inclusive (DE&I) workplace makes all workers feel a sense of belonging and that they have the support of organization leaders. The connection between ergonomics and DEI is this: Ergonomics designs for both males and females; people of all generations, shapes and sizes, and people of different races, ethnicities, and cultures. As ergonomics professionals, we have failed to educate business leaders on this connection.

Participants learned:

• the connection between ergonomics and DE&I
• how ergonomics can accommodate all genders, ages, fitness levels, capabilities, generations, races, ethnicities, cultures, among others in the workplace will be discussed

During this session, we provided examples of industrial settings to demonstrate these approaches. Practical tips that ergonomics teams can use and common traps to avoid will also be discussed.

Attendees learned how to:

• prioritize risk factor exposures
• identify at least three tools that can be used for conducting root cause analysis and communicating the results
• define causes of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and associated risks more clearly
• leverage internal continuous improvement resources for ergonomics projects more effectively