This interactive, graphical method of data collection, analysis and documentation provides operational personnel with a valid method of conducting analyses of both current and proposed workplace layouts, work methods, tools and equipment..

A Computer-Based Job Analysis System: Designed to be Used by First-line Supervisors

Published in Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society Annual Meeting

Citations: 0

1996

Abstract

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (particularly injuries of the wrists, arms, shoulders and lower back), along with the financial and non-financial costs resulting from these disorders, are receiving an increasing amount of attention from management, labor and government, alike. The poster presentation discusses a computer-based job-site analysis system that allows operational personnel with little or no training in ergonomics to: (1) analyze and document operational tasks, (2) determine the Characteristics of the tasks that are associated with unnecessary effort, fatigue and the potential for disorders, and (3) recommend effective modifications to the workplace design, work methods, tools and equipment that reduce the risk of disorders. This interactive, graphical method of data collection, analysis and documentation provides operational personnel with a valid method of conducting analyses of both current and proposed workplace layouts, work methods, tools and equipment.. The system is prescriptive in that it provides the analyst with recommended modifications, rather than simply descriptively illuminating the problem areas. Although the system was developed to evaluate and improve the occupational safety and health characteristics of jobs, it is also completely compatible with the type of job documentation required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The system can be used to provide documentation of the current job requirements, in addition to being a useful tool to evaluate reasonable accommodations that may be under consideration. As is the case of reducing work-related musculoskeletal disorders, it is important that operational personnel have an easily understood, yet valid, tool for documenting job requirements under the ADA. The computer-based job analysis system developed, implemented and evaluated during the project described in the poster provides such a tool.

Authors

Steve Johnson, Sherry Brown, J. Hardcastle