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Work Simplification

Work simplification is defined as performing work tasks in the least expensive and most efficient way while achieving the desired objective. It aims to reduce physical and psychological stresses on the body. Some techniques for work simplification include modifying the workplace layout to avoid twisting, bending, or reaching, using tools to reduce physical force, and breaking large loads into smaller, more manageable loads. Proper lighting, adequate space to limit awkward postures, and incorporating stretch breaks can also help simplify work and reduce strain on the body.

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Shahriar Hasan
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590 views2 pages

Work Simplification

Work simplification is defined as performing work tasks in the least expensive and most efficient way while achieving the desired objective. It aims to reduce physical and psychological stresses on the body. Some techniques for work simplification include modifying the workplace layout to avoid twisting, bending, or reaching, using tools to reduce physical force, and breaking large loads into smaller, more manageable loads. Proper lighting, adequate space to limit awkward postures, and incorporating stretch breaks can also help simplify work and reduce strain on the body.

Uploaded by

Shahriar Hasan
Copyright
© Attribution Non-Commercial (BY-NC)
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Work simplification

Definition
Performance of the steps comprising a work in a manner that is least expensive (in terms of effort, money, and time) and consistent with the objective of the work. Work simplification is in the HR, Teams, & Training and Industries, Manufacturing, & Technology.

Work simplification techniques


Work simplification is defined as the use of equipment, ergonomics, functional planning and behaviour modification to reduce the physical and psychological stresses on the body of activities at home or work. By reducing the physical demands on the body during tasks acts to preserve the joints and reduce the risk of injury or re-injury.(Glanze, Anderson & Anderson 1990). Within the workplace some simple guidelines can be used regarding task set up, equipment storage, work techniques and routines than can assist in reducing the physical strain on the body.

Workplace solutions and adjustments


Modifying the workplace layout and equipment

store heavier and frequently used items at waist level set up work tasks to avoid twisting of the spine, bending forwards or reaching away from the body use tools or mechanical equipment to reduce the physical force required to complete tasks, for instance, trolleys, jacks & cranes store infrequently used equipment below mid thigh height or above shoulder height can the tasks be done from a sitting or standing position or rotated to allow postural change? can a stepladder be used to access higher items and reduce the need for over the shoulder reaching?

Modifying loads lifted


can large loads be broken down into smaller loads to reduce the impact on the body? can the load be lifted with two hands rather than one? can handles on loads be altered to make it easier to carry the load?

can loads be carried safely against the body to allow the larger muscles of the legs to support the load rather than the smaller muscles of the arms? can the load be lifted using a team lift? remember it is more physically demanding to grip smaller items or large items with the hand at full stretch.

Controlling the work environment

is there plenty of space so bending, reaching and twisting can be eliminated during tasksif not, how can it be changed? (sometimes shifting tasks far enough away that the worker has to walk or move their body means they will do the task in a better posture than if they can keep their feet still and twist or reach). is the lighting sufficient so that individuals are not having to lean towards a task to view it or strain the eyes? if using the trolleys, consider the size and type of wheels, for instance, larger wheels will make the trolley easier to move.

Redesigning work practices


to allow postural change, can the tasks within the job be rotated or distributed between different employees? can stretch breaks be built into the work routine especially before and after physically demanding tasks?

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