NIOSH Office of Mine Safety and Health Research

The Ergonomics Program primarily conducts laboratory, field, and modeling research to better understand the nature and scope of musculoskeletal disorders among miners, measure exposure, and implement ergonomics programs that result in eliminated or reduced exposures and ultimately musculoskeletal disorders. Our goal is to ensure that demands posed by tasks, tools, equipment and work environment do not exceed worker capabilities.

Laboratory research focuses on determining the physical demands of different task, equipment or tool parameters and the associated capabilities of workers in controlled experiments that mimic exposures found in mining. Field research includes conducting exposure assessments, examining methods of intervention, and developing job design guidelines to reduce injury risk. We work extensively with industry collaborators to reduce the impact of musculoskeletal disorders in the mining industry. Reducing the frequency and severity of disabling injuries to mine workers increases the odds that miners live a long, healthy, and safe life and lays the foundation for a safety culture that can benefit future generations of mine workers.