Ergonomics and the Lab

While addressing some of these problems requires waiting for a capital investment in redesign, steps can be taken to adjust some areas of the lab for specific tasks. For example, cabinet doors and shelves can be removed to clear knee space for chairs at certain locations. Computer workstations can be placed in corner areas at right angles to lab equipment so that an employee can swivel a chair back and forth to conveniently reach both areas. Forearm supports can be purchased that will soften the impact of hard edges.

...and Following Up with the Right Equipment

In addition to paying attention to a lab's design and layout, employers can invest in equipment that lessens ergonomic stress on employees. For example, a pipette with an ergonomically sensitive design is easier for an employee to grasp, requires less force for ejecting the tip and working the plunger, and allows for better hand posture during use.

Buying the right pipette may seem like a small matter, but a 2001 study¹ found that lab employees who spend 300 hours a year (about 1.3 hours per day) using pipettes are at increased risk for injury. Not only are the hand, wrist and thumb affected, but people may suffer injuries to their arm and shoulder as well. 

Similarly, the frequent use of an inadequately designed microscope also can cause strain, especially if an employee has to move his head and neck constantly or hold an awkward position for a certain amount of time. More modern microscopes are adjustable in several directions, with eyepieces that can be moved up and down, side to side, and even tilted away or toward the employee.

Another piece of equipment that should be examined for ergonomic impact is the biosafety cabinet and/or fume hood, which is used to exhaust hazardous fumes away from workers. Those that are adjustable for use by both standing and seated workers are preferable, while those with turntables make it possible to reach the materials in the cabinet without stretching to reach the back. The hood sash should come down far enough to be protective from a fume control standpoint and yet still allow for ergonomic use of the workspace.  

Partnering With Insurer for Resources

The best way to determine how to improve a lab environment is to conduct an ergonomic analysis that takes into account each lab's specific work practices, equipment and existing design. One approach that a company can conduct on its own is to use an ergonomic analysis worksheet that includes definitions and a scoring matrix to determine areas of greatest risk.

Another is to check with your insurance carrier about risk control resources. Since insurance companies see lab and workplace injury claims, they are in a good position to gather information about best practices across the industry. Many not only provide online resources, but may also conduct onsite assessments and work with their customers to plan improvements. They may also provide safety planning guidance and training seminars for management and staff.

The work that is conducted in labs is often vitally important to the people waiting for the results. Lab employees, with their accumulated experience and skills, are a critical asset to any lab. Improving the ergonomic conditions in labs is an important way not only to protect employees, but also support a lab's productivity and success.  

Woody Dwyer is a senior ergonomics consultant for the Travelers Human Factors and Ergonomics unit. Dawn Atchison is the technology, risk control director for Travelers, providing support/service for the medical technology accounts.

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