Ergonomics - Atlas Copco

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Arteries
Veins (superficial)
Veins (deep)
Nerves (superficial)
Nerves (deep)
Problem Damage of finger Compression of Decreased blood Compression of nerves
nerves and blood the median nerve circulation and blood vessels between
vessels the neck and the shoulder
Cause High local forces, Bent wrist and high Cold handles, and Work that requires
and vibrations. finger forces. Pinched handles that are frequent reaching
grip. Repetitive work. too small. above shoulder level.
Symptom Tingling and Pain and numbness Numbness in the Numbness in the fingers.
numbness in the in the hand, hand and ache The arms may feel as if
fingers. ache in the arm. in the arm. they are “going to sleep”,
and the pulse in the
wrist may weaken.
Ergonomics Avoiding sharp Avoiding bent wrist. Improving insulation. Improving workstation design
edges and reduction Better handle design. to reduce frequent reaching
of vibrations. above shoulder level.
Problem Cuts Sores and calluses Carpal tunnel syndrome Tennis elbow
Cause Sharp edges. High friction forces and Highly repetitive high Overload and inflammation
Unguarded pressure on a spot in the hand. grip force with bent wrist. of the tendon attach-
inserted tools. Pinch damages. ment in the elbow
(lateral epicondylitis).
Symptom Bleeding and Fluid between skin layers and Numbness of the thumb Pain in the elbow and
risk of infection. local increased thickness of the and index finger due to down in the forearm.
skin. Pressure on the median pressure on the median
nerve in the carpal tunnel. nerve in the carpal tunnel.
Ergonomics Better guards. Improving the texture of handles Workstation design and Reducing the need
Warnings. to provide sufficient friction the selection of tool to for squeeze forces and
on the handles and increased permit the operator to work lift with the palm of the
contact surface. with a straight wrist. hand facing the
No pinching from triggers. floor (wrist extension).