The ergonomic team at the Sylvania, Ga., Plant is always on the prowl for opportunities to help fellow associates improve their workplace. One of their discoveries in 2006 included a UPS package station that was recently relocated to a new area in the plant.

Led by Bruce Peake, principal manufacturing engineer in Sylvania, the ergonomics team found that while roller conveyors were installed to assist associates who move UPS packages to a weighing and labeling area, other potential ergonomic risks still needed to be addressed.

“Several associates installed makeshift adaptations,” said Bruce. “Although these adaptations helped a few associates, they could not be adjusted for all the associates using the UPS package station.”

The ergonomics team – comprised of five operations associates and the plant nurse – redesigned the work area to eliminate unnecessary walking and installed comfortable floor matting. The group also installed monitor mounts, adjustable keyboard trays and adjustable worktables to reduce awkward bending and lifting.

After studying the outcomes of the UPS station revamp, Bruce said, “The improved workstation not only reduced ergonomic risk, it also improved workflow, making UPS shipment preparation even faster.”

The Sylvania ergonomics team meets monthly to review the jobs where associates have reported musculoskeletal complaints. After completing a detailed job analysis, the team investigates and implements ergonomic improvements.