Prevention of WMSD in the Ontario Clothing Industry: A Focus on Small Business
| Principal Investigator(s): | Richard P. Wells (University of Waterloo)
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| Co-Investigator(s): | Jonathan Eaton, Eric Frumin, Julianne Natale, Tullia Marcolongo (Union of Needletrades, Industrial and Textile Employees); Mickey Kerr, Sue Ferrier (Institute for Work & Health); Syed Naqvi (Occupational Health Clinics for Ontario Workers)
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| Sponsoring Institution: | University of Waterloo |
Objective
The purpose of this research project was to implement and evaluate ergonomics programs aimed at the prevention of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) in the Ontario clothjing industry and, in particular, to compare the effectiveness of ergonomic programs that involved a partcipative as opposed to consultative approach to making ergonomic changes.
Method
Three companies were recruited. A participatory model in one plant involved management, workers, union representatives and researchers who worked as an ergonomics change team. The second plant was provided with external typical consulting advice. The third “delayed intervention” plant was used as a referent. Questionnaires were administered at baseline and at follow-up. Operations were assessed with a risk factor checklist and videotape. Interviews were conducted at the active and passive plants at the end of the study.
Results
A consistent pattern emerged among those workers who experienced ergonomic improvements compared to their coworkers who did not. They reported decreases in pain, tiredness in body parts, especially the upper extremity, effort to do their job, psychological demands and increased productivity.
Conclusions
In the two intervention companies, awareness and knowledge surrounding WMSDs was increased. Based upon results from the health questionnaires and interviews, the ergonomic interventions were effective. The participative approach was the more effective.
For more information:
wells@healthy.uwaterloo.ca
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