NIOSH investigations have determined that a wide variety of work settings and job operations have the potential for ergonomic hazards. A log of these NIOSH investigations, included here, provides examples of problem work settings and job operations and the recommendations that were suggested to solve these problems. Readers may find similarities between their businesses and those listed.

The log included in Tray 1–A describes the work settings, the job tasks in question, the findings, and the recommended control measures. Various data collection procedures were used in these investigations. Medical information was largely collected by reviewing OSHA logs, other case records, use of special questionnaires, and surveys. In some instances, physical examinations were given with diagnostic tests added to better assess any apparent musculoskeletal problem. Data on ergonomic stress factors were obtained by walk-through and checklist observations, analyses of videotapes of workers engaged in their jobs, and workstation measurements. Forces involved in certain tasks such as lifting were subjected to biomechanical evaluation as needed.

While the entries in Tray 1–A only offer clues, the information contained in the investigative reports is fairly detailed. Many of these reports can be ordered from the National Technical Information Service (NTIS). (NTIS order numbers are listed for each available report. Prices for these reports vary; please check with NTIS for current pricing information.)

Tray 1-A. NIOSH Investigations of WMSDs in Work Settings INDEX