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| Ergonomic research strongly indicates
that over-exposure to one type of movement can lead
to wear and tear on the muscles. One of the best
preventative administrative approaches to reduce
injury is to implement a job rotation. The general
principle is: rotating work allows fatigued muscle
groups to recuperate while others perform work. |
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| Risks |
- Initially there may be some confusion with
scheduling and complaints from employees. Very
few changes go through without some resistance.
- Productivity initially may be slightly reduced
as employees are cross-trained.
- Employees may initially experience discomfort
due to the use of new muscles.
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| Benefits
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- Reduces employee exposure to the physical
demands of one task.
- Different muscle groups are used.
- Decreases fatigue in one muscle group.
- Minimizes the amount of time an employee is
exposed to maximum weight, repetition or an
environmental hazard (i.e., vibration, noise,
air quality).
- Monotony is eliminated.
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| The benefits have been shown to greatly out weigh
the risks. In fact, all of the risks listed above
can all be controlled when they are understood and
handled properly. An "optimal" job rotation
includes the following: |
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Tasks that use different muscle
groups. |
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Frequent rotation (i.e., every
30-120 minutes is optimal, depending on the
tasks). |
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Tasks that have different production
rates, force requirements, environmental stimulation,
cycle times and posture requirements. |
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Equipment and hand tools that
can be operated with both hands or feet. |
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| Job rotation should not be the only strategy
employed to reduce injuries. Companies should continue
to find ways to reduce exposure through proper workstation
set up and automation. |
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