The foundation of their approach is something they have labeled "The Ergo Hour." At its most basic, Ergo Hour is a webinar during which the organization educates workers in different locations on specific ergonomics topics. Viewed beyond those parameters, Ergo Hour is about engagement, active learning and information sharing--and the concept is transferable to a variety of OSH topics.
Several core elements drive the process:
- Assess needs.
- Provide a structure (e.g., a safety management system).
- Ensure continuous contact.
- Deliver efficient technical support.
- Implement at the plant level.
According to Wilzbacher, webinars can take many forms. Some are used to present a new topic, while others highlight plant-specific ergonomics projects in order to share knowledge about specific exposures identified and addressed. Wilzbacher and Johnson noted that the webinar format makes the education available at the individual level as well as the team level. It also enables the company to share information visually--including key measurements and parameters--so that many individuals can readily understand, regardless of their background, education or language.
Wilzbacher and Johnson also offered these suggestions for ensuring that the webinar has maximum impact:
- Make your content visual.
- Capsulize in easy-to-understand terms what is being discussed.
- Explain how to conduct and score an ergonomic assessment.
- Include before and after photos that illustrate the anthropometric issues of concern.
- Highlight pertinent section of assessment results
- Ask questions to get participants involved.
- Incorporate videos where able.
The format sets up an interactive process that generates continued contact, Wilzbacher explained. He often hears from a plant representative about a key concern, then asks that individual to share video, photos and data about this issue. He then reviews that information and starts an ongoing dialogue with the facility that leads to sharing of lessons learned and employee engagement. It also helps plant personnel recognize that they aren't the only ones ergonomic challenges. This begins to propel a learning and sharing environment.