The safety, comfort and efficiency of your staff is paramount in any workplace. While trips and falls, broken glassware and chemical accidents are high on the list of workplace injuries in laboratories, Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSIs) are a significant contributor.
The scientific study of people and their working conditions, ergonomics, play an important role in preventing RSIs and maintaining high-quality results in occupations that carry out repetitive, precise practices.
Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI) affects up to half a million workers in the UK each year (UNISON).
Identification and Prevention
RSIs can present themselves through a variety of symptoms. Recognising these symptoms allows us to identify where preventative measures can be put into place.
- Pain, aching or tenderness in the affected area (eg. neck, shoulder and back strain).
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion (eg. Trigger Finger).
- Tingling, numbness or weakness in hands or fingers (eg. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome).
- Swelling or inflammation (eg. Tendonitis).
- Difficulty performing routine tasks.
RSIs in Histology Labs
Within a histology lab there are a number of daily processes that are key contributors to RSIs if preventative measures are not implemented. Finding ergonomic solutions to these daily activities helps to prevent long-term health issues affecting the individual and the efficiency of your lab.
Tissue processing and microscopic examination often require extended periods of seated activity, causing both discomfort and fatigue. Ergonomic designs can help to alleviate these issues. Adjustable microtomes, anti-fatigue mats and appropriate seating offer technicians comfort, resulting in more accurate sectioning, staining and slide analysis which are critical for diagnostic accuracy.
On average, diagnostic labs see between 100 – 300 samples per day. High-throughput labs put additional pressure on technicians who can see over 1,000 daily samples. By using the correct ergonomic tools, we can minimise the effort required for tasks, which in turn helps reduce fatigue – particularly for technicians performing repetitive tasks.
Adjustable and customisable ergonomic equipment ensures that all employees can work efficiently and comfortably, irrespective of height, strength or physical conditions. The Ergotec Worktable is entirely customisable, its standard setup combines an electronically adjustable base with an integrated histology specific equipment worktop. Adjustable, supportive chairs further enhance your workspace and create a full ergonomic solution. The Ergosit and NEON Lab Chair both offer comfort and contribute to employee satisfaction.
“As service manager I want to give the staff the best equipment to do the job.”
– Sharron Pooley, Lab Manager
Find out more about our recent Ergotec installation at North Tees & Hartlepool NHS Trust here.
What can you do to reduce strain in the lab?
- Workplace assessments – identify potential areas of concern before they become a problem.
- Technique – train staff on proper posture and correct use of tools.
- Regular breaks and alternating tasks – implement ‘micro-breaks’ to stretch and relax muscles and rotate tasks between staff to reduce repetitive motion.
- Ergonomic tools and equipment – utilise products that offer an ergonomic design.
- Ergonomic workstations – adjustable chairs and workbenches are an inclusive option and accommodate all staff, while a well setup workstation ensures tools and equipment are within easy reach.
Ergonomic options tick the box for occupational health and safety standards. Additional safety standards are put in place to keep your workforce safe from direct dangers within the lab. Alongside our ergonomic equipment, we offer a wide range of safety products to comply with H&S requirements, these include PPE, vaportest monitoring badges and spillage kits.
Take a look at Ergotec
Get in touch to find out how we can help increase efficiency and productivity within your lab.