Ergonomics is the science of designing and arranging the physical environment, equipment and organization of work to most safely and effectively fit the human body of the worker. Injuries resulting from poor ergonomics—known as work-related musculoskeletal disorders—account for more than one-third of all on-the-job injuries, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. And, these injuries pack a financial punch, with U.S. employers footing a bill that exceeds $65 billion in direct and indirect costs from workers' compensation fees, lost productivity, recruiting, absenteeism, litigation and even human error.

Most employers recognize the costs associated with ergonomics injuries and understand that having a comprehensive ergonomics program can help improve their bottom line. But to be most effective, it's necessary for employers to devote adequate resources to addressing ergonomics issues, and designate personnel with the appropriate expertise and training to develop, implement and manage ergonomics programs in the workplace.

Occupational and environmental health professionals, such as occupational health nurses (OHNs), are well-suited for this important task. As health care workers, these professionals have observed and identified the effects of ergonomics injuries, and have first-hand knowledge of how employees are affected by ergonomics injuries and problems. And, as business people, they appreciate the great economic cost of these injuries to employers, and possess the program-management know-how to design realistic objectives and strategies and evaluate program results.

While their unique backgrounds best qualify occupational and environmental health professionals to carry the ergonomics torch within a company, it is critical that other key personnel buy into and support the program. For example, management should incorporate ergonomics principles into policies and procedures, and devote adequate time and resources to preventing and addressing injuries and complaints from employees. Supervisors should maintain a safe environment, provide safety training and ensure accountability. Engineers have the responsibility of designing equipment and processes to contribute to employee health and safety. And, once all processes and systems are in place, it's important that employees understand and comply with safety rules and report hazards and injuries immediately.

Finally, in addition to commitment from management and employee understanding and involvement, to be most effective, ergonomics programs should include the following additional elements: