Successful ergonomics interventions focus on optimizing human wellbeing and systems performance as described in the definition of ergonomics by the International Ergonomics Association (IEA). Sustainable interventions outlined by Zink (2012) provides a model based on economic, ecological, and social elements. Dul (2021) described the major driver for capital investment in ergonomics interventions was productivity improvements rather than wellbeing. Five case studies in this presentation will focus on sustainable interventions to prevent musculoskeletal disorders (MSD).

The “Green Star” or “WELL” program in office design focuses on re-usable materials and biodegradable products as well as minimal energy footprint in the design. One of the points in this program includes ergonomics assessments in the design stage prior to the selection of internal fittings, furniture, and joinery. In the paint manufacturing industry, all the major manufacturers in Australia used ergonomics methods to assess MSD risks with paint packaging for community use. As a result, they agreed to eliminate the 20 litre cans from their range and only offer 10 or 15 litre cans.

In the banking industry all the major banks agreed to reduce the size and weight of coin bags to reduce MSD injuries to staff and customers. The domestic waste collection industry previously had teams walk behind trucks and tip the contents of household bins into the back of the truck. This resulted in fatalities from falling off the rear of the truck as well as MSD injuries. This system was not sustainable due to low productivity, injuries to the staff as well as spills from the bins. A new style of domestic waste bin was introduced that could be lifted by a mechanical arm on the side of the truck activated by the truck driver to improve productivity, reduce spillage and eliminate injuries.

One of the largest supermarket companies conducted ergonomics assessments of the fresh vegetables supply chain. Every time the vegetable was handled there was increased quality damage as well as injury risks for the workers. A system was developed to use the same container in the fields to collect the vegetables, store them on a pallet for transporting to the cool rooms and to display the vegetables on the supermarket shelves. These studies indicate that the three primary elements for sustainable ergonomics interventions were productivity, safety, and product quality improvements.