Ergonomic Analysis of Materials Handling and Design Guidelines for a New Central Public Library

Abstract

In the first phase of this two-year project, workplace factors contributing to hand, arm and back injuries among employees at a large central public library were identified and prioritized. A central research committee was established consisting of Library Management, Union representatives and an Ergonomist. The next phase involved formation of four sub-committees to procure and prototype new equipment, develop new methods of working, evaluate the new equipment and methods, and make recommendations to the central research committee. The Ergonomist facilitated the process by helping committees remain systematic and objective in their approach and evaluations. In some cases more detailed analyses were conducted using computerized lifting models and electromyographic (EMG) analysis of muscle activity. Efforts resulted in recommendations for the current library facility and conceptual design guidelines for architects planning the new Central Public Library.