Ergonomics is a critical factor in the design of industrial processes and production lines, as it directly affects the productivity, health and safety of workers. Ergonomic design principles help create workspaces and process lines that are optimized for human interaction, reducing the risk of musculoskeletal disorders, improving the Occupational Health & Safety factors, and increasing overall efficiency.
Our ergonomic principles, considerations and inviolable rules for process line design:
- Workplace height: We always adhere to the standards for optimal standing height, which should be 100–125 cm in accordance with ISO 14738.
- Reaching distance: The maximum distance between the worker and the object that he must grasp should not exceed 48.5 cm according to ISO 14738.
- Visual accessibility: We ensure that workers can clearly see and access the materials, tools, and components they need to perform their tasks.
- Load handling: We take into account weight limits for items that workers need to lift or move, with a recommended limit of 27kg for men and 20kg for women when using both hands.
Challenges and considerations:
- Balancing ergonomic requirements with other design constraints such as space, production capacity and cost.
- Ensuring that ergonomic design is adaptable and can accommodate a diverse workforce with varying physical characteristics and abilities.
- Constant attention to ergonomics at all stages of design, construction and operation of the production line.
Our integration of ergonomics into process line design:
We use 3D simulation and modeling tools to predict and solve potential ergonomic issues during the design phase. Also, to collect feedback and incorporate their needs and preferences, we also involve external subject matter specialists and third-party experts in the design process. We take a holistic, user-centric approach that considers the entire production system, including product and material flows, equipment layout and worker interactions. Our advantages of ergonomic production line design:
- Improved compliance with the Occupational Health & Safety of workers, reducing the risks of work-related injuries, industrial and other diseases of the musculoskeletal system.
- Increased productivity and efficiency as workers can perform their tasks more comfortably and with less fatigue.
- Reduced operating costs, such as lower insurance premiums and workers’ compensation claims.
Therefore, integrating ergonomic principles into the industrial design and setup of process lines is critical to optimizing productivity, worker health and safety, and overall process efficiency and product quality.
To find out more, please contact us at info@ek-innovative.com to receive information from experts competent in the respective field.