If the mission for manufacturing-excellence initiatives is to save money, and the goal of ergonomics initiatives is to reduce injuries and illnesses, how can plants justify the need for an ergonomics program to upper management?

The key is using a systematic and data-driven approach, according to Humantech's Jason Mallon.

"The link between ergonomics and productivity and quality is established when ergonomic assessments identify specific task factors that contribute to ergonomic risk, such as awkward postures, forceful exertions and high rates of repetition," Mallon says.

"These are point-of-motion constraints, which harm production and quality by preventing workers from performing at their best."

For more, read "Managing Health: Using Ergonomics to Drive Excellence in Manufacturing."