Shipyard Ergonomics

Case Study: A 41-year-old man who had worked in a shipyard for three years went to the doctor complaining of severe groin pain. This pain had increased in severity in the preceding year, more so on the right side. For five hours a day for three years, the man had used an ultra-high-pressure water blaster to strip paint from ships, with one end of the device resting in his groin while the other end was directed outward at the ship, blasting the paint away. The device vibrated and caused mild discomfort during its use, and about one year into the use of the water blaster, the man began experiencing persistent groin pains. The severity of the pain caused the man to give up his job. Five years after starting his job at the shipyard, he had to undergo a total right hip replacement. Doctors determined that his bone problems were the result of vibration-induced injuries he suffered on the job.

Key Takeaway: The work practices that employees implement to get their jobs done effectively might in fact be very dangerous to their health. Since MSDs are not always immediately apparent, it may be difficult for workers to discern if their work methods are safe. It is better for employees and companies alike that the company should have a formal ergonomics program and make ongoing process improvements, with a shipyard ergonomics expert and a healthcare professional providing oversight.