Aging Workers & Ergonomics: A Fresh Perspective

摘要

OSH professionals and practicing ergonomists must be aware of the capabilities and limitations of the workforce (s) with which s/he must work. Age can be a factor but not necessarily in the stereotypical ways many people think. Employers, practicing ergonomists and OSH professionals should takeaway several key points: 1) Identify and change any unfounded negative perspectives about older workers. These are unproductive and can shift the focus from responsible risk-reduction to blaming and fostering self-fulfilling expectations of longer disability. See older workers for what they are-stewards of accumulated wisdom and skill, a group that generates the lowest rates of serious injuries, and mentors who set the example of life-long productivity. 2) Do data analysis homework. Analyze workforce demographics and losses and compare them to national or local geographic data. An older worker problem is unlikely compared to the secular trends, but such analysis can reveal productive intervention directions. Focus on risks that drive loss and are age-independent. 3) Engage workers in wellness programs that target obesity and encourage healthy behaviors. Such programs can produce an additional protective safety benefit and contribute to positive workplace safety results. 4) Develop sound ergonomics and safety practices, as these benefit all workers regardless of age. 5) Train workers, supervisors and engineers to recognize, communicate and eliminate occupational injury hazards. Proper job training and retraining will help to maintain worker productivity and engagement. 6) Allow workers to share input into work design and organization. 7) Strengthen efforts to reduce falls, including the elimination of slipping/tripping hazards, proper stairway design, and use of proper mats and footwear. 8) Because of the high transportation-related fatality rate of older workers, examine and strengthen crash-reduction policies to ensure that all workers who may drive on company time, including drivers age 65 and older, are not at higher crash risk due to capability or past driving record. 9) Provide proper lighting in all work areas and install signage that meets guidelines for size, contrast and color use. 10) When workers are injured, keep in personal contact and aggressively pursue their return to work as soon as possible.