Ergonomics in the clinical laboratory

Ergonomics can improve work quality, increase productivity, raise morale, reduce absenteeism, and reduce workers compensation. Laboratory managers are responsible for recognizing employees at risk of developing CTSs which represent 65 percent of all injuries reported. It is a wise investment to prevent injuries. It needs to be stressed to laboratorians that just because one is not suffering now, does not mean suffering will not occur in the future. All of these micro- (mini-) traumas add up over the years. Once there is pain, there are things that can be done to alleviate the discomfort or disability, but that part of the body is never the same again. CTDs are not inexpensive; the National Council on Compensation Insurance reports the average CTD victim compensation is $29,000. Policies and procedures are needed in every facility to address ergonomic safety issues. All employees should be educated about tasks or situations putting an individual at risk for CTDs. Employees should communicate with management and management should be open to information about potential or real risk situations. Safety is everyone's job.