ABSTRACT
This chapter provides an overview and perspectives on management roles in implementing workplace ergonomics programs. Business rationales, the need for workplace ergonomics programs, and strategies pertinent to implementation are discussed from a general management perspective.
Historically workplace injury and safety concerns focused on acute injury, that is, injuries happening suddenly, and with a single obvious cause; for example, accidents from slips and falls or overt physical trauma resulting from unsafe equipment. Adequate attention to such an obvious problem area came only over an extended time period. The development of scientific ergonomics, and the recognition of chronically developing workplace musculoskeletal injuries attributable to multi-factorial causes provide a broader, more comprehensive perspective of everyday working conditions. From a management point of view, however, this seemingly adds a new layer of complexity to an already difficult situation. The reality, however, is that both acute and chronically developing injuries have always characterized the working environment.
