The Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association has created a new Safety Subcommittee residing under the Government and Regulatory Affairs Committee.
The purpose of the new subcommittee is to review critical issues confronting safety in the workplace and to share this information with KCMA members. We will be discussing different topics at each monthly meeting. Please watch our bi-weekly newsletters to stay updated on latest developments. If you are interested in joining the subcommittee please reach out to Betsy Natz: bnatz@kcma.org or 703-264-1690.
The first topic the subcommittee discussed was ergonomics, e.g., lifting, body mechanics, repetitive motion and cross training.
Ergonomics
These are some thoughts to keep in mind as you address ergonomics in your facilities.
1. Safety Log – The importance of keeping a safety log for internal documentation for OSHA. This can be used as a learning opportunity for your employees.
Disciplinary considerations: Coaching for the initial violation and a formal written document for the second violation. Consider this as positive reinforcement. REPORT EARLY. Share with employees the importance of safety.
2. Repetitive motion, injuries, lifting: When working with face frames, (if you use power screw guns), consider screw guns that cut down on vibration and higher-grade screw guns.
https://www.hytorc.com/vibration-safety
3. Consider padded gloves. Half-finger gloves provide the greatest dexterity for holding and placing screws.
https://www.ansell.com/us/en/products/valeo-v430/pds/1
https://www.superiorglove.com/products/knitactiv-vibghfv/
4. Standing Mat – Reduce the repercussions of standing on concrete all day.
5. Cross Training – Minimize repetitive motion. Train employees in all aspects of the area they’re assigned. Walk employees through their stations and point out potential hazards.
6. Ergonomics Software –There are several in the marketplace:
https://www.ehs.com/solutions/ergonomics/
https://www.tumeke.io/
7. Educate employees. Some things to consider:
- Plant wide meetings on safety
- OSHA refresher training
- Ask employees to share ideas for best practices. They are closer to the machines and employee safety than management
- “See something – say something”
- Lighter limit on cart loads
Other useful tools that our members can assess online:
Estimated Costs of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses and Estimated Impact on a Company's Profitability Worksheet: https://www.osha.gov/safetypays/estimator
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