Adding ergonomics to an industrial environment can be difficult. With so many options, often under budget constraints, it’s challenging to know where to begin.
If you have a large application that operators need a better solution for reaching it comfortably, consider an ergonomic operator platform.
Pictured: LTW’s Ultra Low Profile Platform
What is an ergonomic operator platform?
An operator platform is a structure that assists staff in reaching applications. When ergonomic with LTW, operator platforms are fully height-adjustable. With the touch of a button, the operator can adjust the height of the platform to their comfortable working position.
Who are operator platforms for?
Ergonomic operator platforms are natural additions to most industrial environments, particularly in manufacturing and warehousing.
While smaller products like adjustable machine bases and robot tables are perfect for situations where the work can be adjusted in height to what is best for the operator, there are other applications where that is not feasible or cost-effective. For very large machinery, raising the operator to the work with operator platforms is much simpler and more affordable.
Height adjustable operator platforms aren’t limited to just large machinery. They are highly popular solutions for conveyor systems, packing stations, and other light-to-heavy-duty applications.
Why ergonomics?
Ergonomics implemented in the workplace has drastic impacts on both an organization and its staff. Some of these benefits include:
- Prevents Injuries: By decreasing the level of repetition and awkward postures in the workplace, risk factors that lead to unnecessary discomfort and major MSD (musculoskeletal disorder) injuries can be prevented.
- Prevents Fines & Penalties by Government-Regulated Health & Safety Inspections (including OSHA): Some industries have industry-specific safety guidelines. Regardless, employers are obligated under the General Duty Clause, Section 5 (a)(1) to keep the workplace free from recognized serious hazards, including ergonomic ones.
- Reduces Worker Compensation & Healthcare Costs: OSHA statistics reveal that workers’ compensation expenses cost businesses $15-$20 billion each year. To make matters more expensive, the Institute of Medicine estimates that the total annual economic burden resulting from workplace MSDs adds up to $45 to $54 billion.
- Improves Operator Output Quality: Poor ergonomics and low job satisfaction lead to frustrated and fatigued workers that can’t perform their best work. When a task is physically taxing, production quality takes a quick downturn.
To see six more organization benefits of industrial ergonomics, visit 10 Reasons to “Get Your Ergonomic On” at Work. If you’re interested in seeing health-specific benefits, check out Unique Health Benefits of Industrial Ergonomics.
Important safety features to look for
When implementing new equipment, safety should be an organization’s top priority. LTW operator platforms feature proprietary safety features, recommended with the end user’s best interest in mind.
Safety Features:
- Guard Railing: Railing is recommended on any open sides that are not entrances to a platform, to prevent accidental falls from elevated heights.
- Entrance/Exit Safety Chains: Safety chains are standard on LTW’s Chariot Personal Portable Lift for entrances, and are available on all other platforms.
- Guard Paneling: Any height adjustable products can come with opportunity for pinch points. LTW’s Adjustable Steps Platform features a proprietary staircase guard system that protects users from potential pinching. Likewise, full guard paneling is available on non-entrances for all LTW operator platforms.
- ES Edges: LTW’s Enhanced Safety Edges help to protect your workplace against possible accidents on non-guard-panel openings. These pressure-sensitive strips are a standard feature, included on the bottoms of any open edge on an Ultra Low Profile Platform or a Chariot Personal Portable Lift. If an object accidentally finds itself under the edge of the platform, when the platform lowers and the ES Edge touches the object, the platform stops and retracts upwards (away from whatever the edge touched).
- Product Quality: Since ergonomic platforms lift people, the platform’s quality is of huge importance. Look for fully welded frames, review sheet metal gauges, and learn about the height adjustment system’s reliability.
How to choose an operator platform
With multiple ergonomic platform options available, and many features to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to begin. LTW recommends that organizations consider:
- The Application: First, gain a solid understanding of the application you’re considering a platform for. One of the best ways to do this is to meet with the people who work with the environment to understand what they like and what they don’t like about their current setup.
- Working Heights Needed: Establish what it is that operators must reach or have access to. Next, use this height chart to determine the working height of your operators. We recommend that the platform you select accounts for operators of a wide range of heights.
- The Type and Location of Nearby Equipment In Use: Nearby equipment can dictate features and capabilities of platforms. For instance, a self-adjusting ramp may not be feasible on a Chariot Personal Portable Lift if other equipment crowds the area.
- Work Environment: Depending on the end user’s environment, there may be specific compliance features that must be included on a platform. For example, cleanroom environments typically opt for fully stainless steel platform frames with guard paneling. Consider what specific features might be needed in the environment you are researching for.
LTW’s team of ergonomics professionals is highly skilled in helping organizations find the best ergonomic solutions for individual applications. Reach out today for a zero-obligation call with input on your project.
Conclusion
Height adjustable operator platforms are continuously growing in popularity due to their diverse functionality and enhanced safety options.
Check out LTW’s full line of ergonomic operator platforms and #GetYourErgonomicOn today!
Pictured: LTW’s Chariot Personal Portable Lift