Ergonomics applies also to product design and engineering. For example, new machinery is being designed according to well-researched principles of ergonomics. Similarly, office equipment, from chairs to computer keyboards, are also being redesigned with worker safety in mind. Through using ergonomically-designed equipment, individuals can avoid problems related to repetitive strain and stress. One of the major issues related to industrial safety management is the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). PPE reduces employee exposure to hazardous chemicals, fumes, and materials. Development of PPE occurs according to scientific research. Discovering which items or situations are hazardous is the first step toward the development of protective equipment. PPE can be designed for any body part, and applies especially to sensitive areas like the head, the face, eyes, ears, respiratory tract, torso, back, and extremities. Face protection includes facial shields such as those used in welding. Shields can be designed to meet the ergonomic requirements of any profession. Eye protection may include contact lenses or specialty goggles or safety glasses, some of which are manufactured to prevent injuries from lasers. Protective gear for the head includes hard hats and helmets, some of which have built-in voltage protection. For the feet, toe guards or steel-toed boots, metatarsal guards, shin guards, and specialized leggings to prevent heat or chemical injuries may be worn. Some shoes are designed to be electrically conductive. Hand injuries can be prevented through the use of a wide range of glove types available. Gloves can be temperature-resistant or chemical-resistant, and come in dozens of different materials. Protective equipment for the ears includes mainly ear plugs and muffs. Body and torso can be safeguarded against injury through the use of special fabrics that are designed to keep harmful chemicals...

Special braces may be worn to protect the spine and torso. Workers exposed to toxic chemicals and fumes may also need to wear protective equipment for the respiratory system, such as special gas masks that filter air.
Material Data Safety Sheets are published on hundreds of different health and safety hazards. They must be continually updated to include new information gleaned from scientific research into hazardous chemicals and substances. For example, a Material Data Safety Sheet for infectious substances can help workers in certain environments protect against the contraction of such bacteria such as salmonella. The Material Data Safety Sheet located at http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/msds-ftss/msds132e.html. includes information about potential health hazards, symptoms, communicability, and incubation period. For example, salmonella choleraesuis can be spread via animals or human beings. The data sheet also includes helpful information such as the bacteria's reaction to drugs and cleansing agents. Laboratory-specific hazards are discussed on the data sheet, as are instructions for symptom monitoring, immunization, and first aid and medical treatment. Workers who may be exposed to salmonella should wear protective clothing such as specialty coats and gloves that would prevent contact with the skin. Eye protection might also be helpful in situations where materials might splash or spill.

Works Cited

Material Safety Data Sheet: Infectious Substances." Public Health Agency of Canada. Online at http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/msds-ftss/msds132e.html

Personal Protective Equipment." OSHA. United States Department of Labor. PDF file available online at http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/personalprotectiveequipment/solutions.html.

What's Industrial Hygiene?" AIHA. Online at http://www.aiha.org/aboutAIHA/html/ih-info.htm.