Humantech conducted a benchmarking study as part of an ongoing process to better understand the current status and successful elements of managing occupational ergonomics in today's workplace. Occupational ergonomics, as defined by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), is "the science of fitting workplace conditions and job demands to the capabilities of the working population. Ergonomics is an approach or solution to deal with a number of problems; among them are work-related musculoskeletal disorders."
This proceedings paper was derived from the full report of the benchmarking study findings. This paper summarizes the general trends and high-level findings of the study.
The benchmarking study is the fourth in a series of studies on management practices. It focuses on identifying key elements of effective ergonomics programs and the management of these processes. The scope of the study was to:
Meet with 15 to 20 Fortune 500 organizations with established ergonomics programs. Thirty-five (35) participants volunteered through a self-nomination and survey question process. Seventeen companies were selected in the final study group based on their program history, scope, and reported results.
Interview the person(s) responsible for ergonomics (Ergonomics Program Manager or equivalent).
