body mechian

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary focus of ergonomics?

The study of body mechanics to avoid injury and strain

The study of the human body's muscle structure and function

The study of people's efficiency in their working environment (correct)

The study of the psychological effects of work on employees

What is the main purpose of proper body mechanics?

To improve worker morale

To avoid injury and strain (correct)

To increase productivity and efficiency

To reduce the risk of eye strain

What is a potential consequence of not following proper ergonomic principles?

Improved worker morale

Increased productivity and efficiency

Enhanced creativity and innovation

Muscular and skeletal problems (correct)

What is the main goal of Principle 1 of ergonomics?

To work in neutral postures Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of Principle 5 of ergonomics?

To reduce excessive motions Signup and view all the answers

What is the result of not following Principle 6 of ergonomics?

Fatigue and static load Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of Principle 7 of ergonomics?

Minimizing pressure points Signup and view all the answers

What is the main goal of Principle 9 of ergonomics?

To move, exercise, and stretch Signup and view all the answers

What is a common outcome of awkward postures or movements?

Fatigue and muscular problems Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of holding objects close to your body?

To minimize the risk of injury Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for maintaining the natural S-curve of the spine?

To reduce pressure on the spine Signup and view all the answers

What is the neutral posture for the arms?

Keeping elbows at sides and shoulders relaxed Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of using wrist rests?

To keep wrists in a neutral position Signup and view all the answers

What is the 'reach envelope'?

The semi-circle that your arms make as you reach out Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended height for performing most work?

At elbow height Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary benefit of using power tools?

To reduce excessive motions and fatigue Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for holding the same position for a period of time?

Static load Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary way to reduce static load?

Change the orientation of the work Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of excessive pressure points?

Sitting Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary benefit of maintaining a comfortable environment?

To reduce fatigue and discomfort Signup and view all the answers

When setting up your work area, what is the primary consideration?

Having sufficient room for your head, knees, and feet Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the muscles of the spine?

To hold the back steady while using large leg and arm muscles Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to keep your centre of gravity within your base of support?

To maintain balance and prevent twisting of the spine Signup and view all the answers

What is the benefit of having strong abdominal muscles?

It supports the spine and back muscles Signup and view all the answers

Why should you avoid straining to reach for objects?

To prevent straining your back Signup and view all the answers

What is the advantage of pushing a load instead of lifting it?

It puts less strain on your back and arms Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to keep personal belongings within reach?

To avoid having to strain to reach for them Signup and view all the answers

What is the benefit of keeping the environment clean and tidy?

It improves productivity Signup and view all the answers

Why should you take a break if you are in one position for a long time?

To stretch and exercise Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for having proper lighting in the work area?

To prevent glare, working in your own shadow, and insufficient light Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Ergonomics and Body Mechanics

Ergonomics is the study of people's efficiency in their working environment, focusing on the well-being of workers.
Body mechanics is the proper use of the human body to do work, avoiding injury and strain.

Importance of Ergonomics and Body Mechanics

Without proper attention to ergonomic principles, problems may occur, including:
- Fatigue
- Muscular/skeletal problems
- Monotony, leading to errors
- Eye strain
- Lower morale
- Awkward postures or movements
- Repetitive movements
- Excessive force applied

10 Principles of Ergonomics

Principle 1: Work in Neutral Postures

Maintain the spine's natural S-curve, whether sitting or standing.

Principle 2: Reduce Excessive Force

Use proper equipment to reduce excessive force, such as trolleys and carts.

Principle 3: Keep Everything in Easy Reach

Keep frequently used items within easy reach, considering the "reach envelope."
Most work should be done at about elbow height, whether sitting or standing.

Principle 4: Work at Proper Heights

Use wrist rests and keep elbows at sides, with shoulders relaxed.

Principle 5: Reduce Excessive Motions

Reduce the number of motions made throughout the day by using power tools if possible.

Principle 6: Minimize Fatigue and Static Load

Avoid holding the same position for a long time, as it creates fatigue and discomfort.

Principle 7: Minimize Pressure Points

Watch out for excessive pressure points, such as when sitting and your leg touches the table.

Principle 8: Provide Clearance

Ensure work areas have sufficient room for the head, knees, and feet, avoiding cramped spaces.

Principle 9: Move, Exercise, and Stretch

Take breaks to stretch and exercise, reducing muscle fatigue.

Principle 10: Maintain a Comfortable Environment

Ensure proper lighting, avoiding glare, working in your own shadow, and insufficient light.
Consider vibrations and noise levels.

Good Posture

Maintain the spine's natural S-curve, with feet flat on the floor, arms at the side, and back straight.
Engage abdominal muscles to support the spine and back muscles.

Balance

Achieve balance by keeping your centre of gravity within your base of support.
Keep the lower limb structure straight, as it is more stable than when flexed.

Lifting Objects

Hold objects close to your body, keeping the weight over your base of support.
Get help when an object is too heavy to lift, and avoid straining to reach.
Push loads if possible, and make sure personal belongings are within reach.

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