3 Go beyond the traditional workspace - Mobile ergonomics with Treston carts The purpose of a workstation or workspace is the first factor when determining the basic requirements and accessories for it. What kind of tasks are carried out in the workspace and how? The second factor is the person doing the work. The personal needs and requirements may change considerably from one employee to another as no two people are alike. When a workstation, be it a workbench, assembly line or a cart, is equipped for the task and adjusted to the individual’s needs, each phase of the production process can be completed without a delay, with accuracy, and with maximum comfort. Consider the following issues when designing an ergonomic, functional and productive workspace: • What tasks are carried out at this workstation? What is the component weight & size handled at this workstation? These set the basic requirements for the workbench type, load capacity, size of work surface as well as range of accessories selected. • Are there several people working at this workstation? Are there several different tasks carried out at this workstation that require different working postures? These have an effect on what kind of height adjustment method should be chosen for the workbench: Allen key, hand crank or electric height adjustment. • What is the space available for use? Make sure there is enough space for all the needed equipment and materials at the workstation and that furniture and equipment are positioned for supporting smooth workflows and processes. Sufficient space should be reserved for completing the tasks and moving around in the workspace. • How do the in-house logistics flows affect the workspace layout? How are components and materials stocked to the workspace? How do parts arrive and leave? Is there a need for mobile storage or transportation carts? • Are the tasks carried out in one specific place or do you have to move around with tools & objects in the workplace? From an ergonomics point of view, avoid carrying manual loads and use tool carts, transportation carts and such aids always when possible. • Is there a need to store other items (e.g. safety equipment, documents, quality inspection devices) at the workstation? Do these need to be on the workbench or for example somewhere close on a cart within easy reach and access? How to design an ergonomic, functional, and productive workspace?
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDk0Mw==