Adding ergonomics to an industrial workplace can require a complex process. Companies want to ensure that spending is done efficiently and in a way that is most effective.
When dealing with workspace ergonomics, you have two general options:
- Adjust the work to the worker by adding customizable height adjustability to the work area (a table, workbench, or small machine).
- Adjust the worker to the work by adding customizable height adjustability to what the person stands on.
Below, we share a couple key rules of thumb for determining which route to go.
1. If you already have a large system in place, raise the worker.
This typically includes:
- Automation Systems
- Large Machinery
In these situations, raising the person with an electric height adjustable operator platform or lift is often much more affordable than raising, lowering, or adding height adjustability to the large system. Some other benefits include:
- Minimized Down Time: Modifying an entire system can require days, weeks, or months of the system being inoperable. In contrast, most height adjustable LTW Operator Platforms are shipped fully assembled and ready to be used the same day they’re put into place.
- Less Team Involvement Required: By opting for a height adjustable platform, an organization’s resources can be focused on existing tasks, rather than installing a massive system modification.
2. If you have a small machine or station, raise the work.
This frequently includes:
- Assembly Stations
- Workbenches
- Small Machinery
- Packaging Tables
- Inspection Stations
When adding ergonomics to a smaller work area or machine, it’s better to add height adjustability to the work area or machine itself. For this, consider two options:
- Add height adjustability to your existing work area (table, workstation) or machine. Consider the LTW E4 Ergo Pillar Kit or LTW E2 Retrofit Kit.
- Replace your existing work area with an industrial height adjustable solution. There are several great options in this category, from LTW Workstations, LTW Bases, and LTW Tables, to LTW Robot-Ready products.
Organizations choose solutions like the LTW E4 Ergo Pillar Kit when using a small to midsize machine that already includes a base that is highly integrated with the machine. By adding the Ergo Pillar Kit with a simple bolt pattern, the entire machine is made height adjustable in very little time.
Even within the same organization, a team might choose a Workstation or Base to both include ergonomics in the workplace and improve the quality and long-term usability of the workspace. These are also natural selections for any new stations that are created, or when it’s time to replace old stations.
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- Contact LTW to let us know if you have first-hand experience with ergonomics, and how it has helped your company.
- Check out LTW’s industrial ergonomic products.