OSHA Inspection: INLAND FISHER GUIDE

Issued

Feb 13, 1990

Abate by

Dec 14, 1990

Penalty

Initial $10,000 · Current $10,000

General-duty citation text

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: The
employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment which were
free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely to cause death
or serious physical harm to employees in that employees were exposed to
an increased risk of developing cumulative trauma disorder(s) from tasks
that they were performing; engineering and administrative controls were
not implemented:
a) Dept. 6 - Electric seat adjuster motor assembly (fourth position
on line 1 filmed) where employees who repeatedly perform the task
of inserting metal slips with a magnetic hand tool which requires
various arm, wrist and hand postures (force, asymmetrical shoulders;
elbow flexion; wrist deviation and extension; palm grip and finger
guidance) were exposed to ergonomic stresses which are likely to
result in cumulative trauma disorders.
On or about 8/17/89.
Among other methods some feasible and acceptable methods to correct this
hazard are:
Priority 1 - Change the tool handle to a power grip handle.
- Provide looser gloves with palm padding.
Priority 2 - Provide foot railing.
- Provide fatigue mat.
- Consider redesigning the product to change the location
of the clip on the assembly.
Priority 3 - Tilt line towards operator.

Issued

Feb 13, 1990

Abate by

Dec 14, 1990

Penalty

Initial $10,000 · Current $10,000

General-duty citation text

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: The
employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment which were
free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely to cause death
or serious physical harm to employees in that employees were exposed to
an increased risk of developing cumlative trauma disorder(s) from tasks
that they were performing; engineering and administrative controlswere
not implemented:
a) Dept. 6 - Electric seat adjuster motor assembly (eighth position on
line 1 filmed) where employees who repeatedly perform the task of
plugging assemblies into electric assist units and also inserting
cables which require various trunk, arm, wrist and hand postures
(trunk rotation and lifting while flexed and twisted; static holding;
wrist rotations while pinching; ulnar deviation and forearm pronation
while inserting the plug(s); repetitiveness of wrist rotations) were
exposed to ergonomic stresses likely to cause cumulative trauma
disorders.
On or about 8/17/89.
Among other methods some feasible and acceptable abatement methods to
correct this hazard are:
Priority 1 - Redesign cable casing.
- Redesign glove type.
Priority 2 - Redesign work space to allow sitting or standing.
- Provide swiveling height adjustable chair with foot rest.
Priority 3 - Redesign work station to include a buffer to let the work
be self-paced.

Issued

Feb 13, 1990

Abate by

Dec 14, 1990

Penalty

Initial $10,000 · Current $10,000

General-duty citation text

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: The
employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment which were
free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely to cause death
or serious physical harm to employees in that employees were exposed to
an increased risk of developing cumulative trauma disorder(s) from tasks
that they were performing; engineering and administrative controls were
not implemented:
a) Dept. 6 - Electric seat adjuster motor assembly (position 13 on line
1 filmed) where employees who repeatedly perform the task of gauging
assemblies which requires various arm, wrist and hand postures (force
pinch grip of gauge) were exposed to ergonomic stresses which are
likely to result in cumulative trauma disorders.
On or about 8/17/89.
Among other methods some feasible and acceptable abatement methods to
correct this hazard are:
Priority 1 - Design an ergonomic handle for the gauge.
- Design an arm rest.

Issued

Feb 13, 1990

Abate by

Dec 14, 1990

Penalty

Initial $10,000 · Current $10,000

General-duty citation text

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: The
employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment which were
free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely to cause death
or serious physical harm to employees in that employees were exposed to
an increased risk of developing cumulative trauma disorder(s) from tasks
that they were performing engineering and administrative controls were
not implemented:
a) Dept. 6 - Electric seat adjuster motor assembly (position fourteen
on line 1 filmed) where employees who repeatedly peform the task of
"tucking wires" on assemblies which require various arm, and hand
postures (force applied with hyperextended joint of thumb; wrist
ulnarly deviated) were exposed to ergonomic stresses which are likely
to cause cumulative trauma disorders.
On or about 2/17/89.
Among other methods some feasible and acceptable abatement methods to
correct this hazard are:
Priority 1 - Improve the design of the insert on the assembly or
- Mechanize this task.

Issued

Feb 13, 1990

Abate by

Dec 14, 1990

Penalty

Initial $10,000 · Current $10,000

General-duty citation text

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: The
employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment which were
free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely to cause death
or serious physical harm to employees in that employees were exposed to
an increased risk of developing cumulative trauma disorder(s) from tasks
that they were performing; engineering and administrative controls were
not implemented:
a) Dept. 6 - Electric seat adjuster motor assembly (position 15 on line
1 filmed) where employees who repeatedly perform the task of packing
seat adjusters which requires various trunk postures (truck flexion,
lateral bending and rotation; repetitiveness) were exposed to
ergonomic stresses which are likely to result in cumulative trauma
disorders.
On or about 8/17/89.
Among other methods some feasible and acceptable methods to correct this
hazard are:
Priority 1 - Redesign the bin. i.e., spring loaded, so that work height
can be adjusted on the same ergonomically good height.
- Teach workers safety in lifting techniques.

Issued

Feb 13, 1990

Abate by

Dec 14, 1990

Penalty

Initial $10,000 · Current $10,000

General-duty citation text

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: The
employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment which were
free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely to cause death
or serious physical harm to employees in that employees were exposed to
an increased risk of developing cumulative trauma disorder(s) tasks that
they were performing; engineering and administrative controls were not
implemented:
a) Dept. 5 - Manual seat adjuster area. Line 1 (2nd half of jump line,
first position filmed) where employees who repeatedly perform the
task of job setup (obtaining parts from two bins and laying them out
for assembly) which required various trunk and arm postures (trunk
rotation, flexion and side bending, and arm extension) were exposed
to ergonomic stresses which are likely to result in cumulative trauma
disorers.
On or about 8/17/89.
Among other methods some feasible and acceptable abatement methods to
correct this hazard are:
Priority 1 - Provide spring loaded bins so that work height can be
adjusted on same ergonomically good height.

Issued

Feb 13, 1990

Abate by

Feb 16, 1990

Penalty

Initial $10,000 · Current $10,000

General-duty citation text

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: The
employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment which were
free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely to cause death
or serious physical harm to employees in that employees were exposed to
an increased risk of developing cumulative trauma disorder(s)from tasks
that they were performing; engineering and administrative controlswere
not implemented:
a) Dept. 5 - Manual seat adjuster area, line 1 (2nd half of jump line,
third position on the line filmed) where employees who repeatedly
perform the task of riveting with a two-hand trip (palm buttons)
riveter which required various arm, wrist and hand postures (wrist
extension; palm force) were exposed to ergonomic stresses which are
likely to result in cumulative trauma disorders.
On or about 8/17/89.
Among other methods some feasible and acceptable abatement methods to
correct this hazard are:
Priority 1 - Change the palm buttons to a better design.
i.e. less wrist extension by tilting the control's surface.

Issued

Feb 13, 1990

Abate by

Dec 14, 1990

Penalty

Initial $10,000 · Current $10,000

General-duty citation text

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: The
employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment which were
free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely to cause death
or serious physical harm to employees in that employees were exposed to
an increased risk of developing cumulative trauma disorder(s) from tasks
that they were performing; engineering and administrative controls were
not implemented:
a) Dept. 5 - Manual Seat Adjuster Area - Line 4 (first position on line
filemed) where employees who repeatedly perform the task of lifting
parts, such as lower supports, out of bins and placing them onto the
conveyor belt which requires various trunk and arm postures (trunk
flexion; side bending, rotation; reaching with extended elbow;
standing on one leg and twisting) were exposed to ergonomic stresses
which are likely to result in cumulative trauma disorders.
On or about 8/21/89.
Among other methods some feasible and acceptable abatement methods to
correct this hazard are:
Priority 1 - Provide spring loading stacking bin.
Priority 3 - Enable both standing and semi-sitting or even sitting for
this task.

Issued

Feb 13, 1990

Abate by

Dec 14, 1990

Penalty

Initial $10,000 · Current $10,000

General-duty citation text

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: The
employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment which were
free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely to cause death
or serious physical harm to employees in that employees were exposed to
an increased risk of developing cumulative trauma disorder(s) fromtasks
that they were performing; engineering and administrative controlswere
not implemented;
a) Dept. 5 - Manual seat adjuster area - Line 4 (twelfth position on
line filmed) where employees who attach springs onto assemblies which
required various trunk, arm, wrist and hand postures (trunk rotation;
forearm supination; pinch grip; elbow flexion and repetitiveness)
were exposed to ergonomic stresses which are likely to result in
cumulative trauma disorders.
On or about 8/21/89.
Among other methods some feasible and acceptable abatement methods to
correct this hazard are:
Priority 1 - Allow job rotation.
- Provide padded arm support.
- Provide tool with large diameter handle to allow
power grip.
- Provide sufficient leg room for employees, and provide
height adjustable seating.
Priority 2 - Consider mechanization of task.

Issued

Feb 13, 1990

Abate by

Dec 14, 1990

Penalty

Initial $10,000 · Current $10,000

General-duty citation text

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: The
employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment which were
free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely to cause death
or serious physical harm to employees in that employees were exposed to
an increased risk of developing cumulative trauma disorder(s) from tasks
that they were performing; engineering and administrative controls were
not implemented:
a) Dept. 5 - Manual seat adjuster area - Line 4 (fourteenth position
on the line filmed) where employees who repeatedly perform the task
of packing assemblies which require various trunk postures (trunk
flexion, lateral bending and rotation, repetitiveness) were exposed
to ergonomic stresses which are likely to result in cumulative
trauma disorders.
On or about 8/12/89.
Among other methods some feasible and acceptable abatement methods to
correct this hazard are:
Priority 1 - Provide spring loaded stacking bin.
- Teach workers safety in lifting techniques.

Issued

Feb 13, 1990

Abate by

Dec 14, 1990

Penalty

Initial $10,000 · Current $10,000

General-duty citation text

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: The
employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment which were
free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely to cause death
or serious physical harm to employees in that employees were exposed to
an increased risk of developing cumulative trauma disorder(s) from tasks
that they were performing; engineering and administrative controlswere
not implemented:
a) Dept. 6 - Near automatic assembly machines such as ITC and RWC units
in vicinity of columns U-22 and/or W-22 and also Q-22 and/orQ-26
where employees who lift single, handleless boxes of rivets and/or
worm gears weighing 40+ lbs and each from 5131 baskets, carry the
individual boxes to machine hoppers, and also fill the hoppers which
required various trunk, arm and wrist postures, (wrist ulnary
deviated and box is pinched gripped, trunk flexion for about a third
of cycle box held at shoulder height and wrist ulnarly rotated during
filling of machine hoppers were exposed to ergonomic stresses likely
to result in cumulative trauma disorders.
On or about 8/21/89.
Among other methods some feasible and acceptable abatement methods to
correct this hazard are:
Priority 1 - Provide spring loaded crates to reduce your flexion
during lifting of boxes
- Provide handles on parts boxes lateral perforations, and
Priority 2 - Provide a cart for carrying parts boxes to hoppers, or
Priority 1 - Place the 5131 baskets closer to the machine hoppers, and
mechanize the filling of the hoppers (e.g., design the
hoppers so they are moveable and pneumatically adjustable
in height).

Issued

Feb 13, 1990

Abate by

Feb 16, 1990

Penalty

Initial $10,000 · Current $10,000

General-duty citation text

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: The
employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment which were
free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely to cause death
or serious physical harm to employees in that employees were exposed to
an increased risk of developing cumulative trauma disorder(s) from tasks
that they were performing; engineering and administrative controls were
not implemented:
a) Dept. 6 - Old RWC Line - Bracket assembly - where employees who
repeatedly perform the task of making upper channels which require
various arm and trunk postures (shoulder lifted, extended and
abducted; trunk twisting, sidebending, extension and always slightly
flexed; and excessive arm reaching) were exposed to ergonomic
stresses which were likely to result in cumulative trauma disorders.
On or about 8/2/89.
Among other methods some feasible and acceptable abatement methods to
correct this hazard are:
Priority 1 - Rearrange layout of parts.
Priority 2 - Provide a chair with proper back support that swivels and
is height adjustable.
- Provide footrest.
- Check and adjust the reach distances to parts as these
factors appear to be causing excessive reaching to workers.

Issued

Feb 13, 1990

Abate by

Mar 14, 1990

Penalty

Initial $10,000 · Current $10,000

General-duty citation text

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: The
employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment which were
free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely to cause death
or serious physical harm to employees in that employees were exposed to
an increased risk of developing cumulative trauma disorder(s) from tasks
that they were performing; engineering and admimistrative controls were
not implemented:
a) Dept. 5 - Manual seat adjuster area - "W" Line - (eighth position on
line filmed) where employees who repeatedly perform the task of
hammering and inspecting lockbars on assemblies which requires
various trunk postures (deep flexion and rotation while sitting) were
exposed to ergonomic stressors which are likely to result in
cumulative trauma disorders.
On or about 8/24/89.
Among other methods some feasible and acceptable abatement methods to
correct this hazard are:
Priority 1 - Provide space to stow defective parts.
- Provide chair with armrest and swivel function.
Priority 2 - Provide pad for conveyor band.

Issued

Feb 13, 1990

Abate by

Dec 14, 1990

Penalty

Initial $10,000 · Current $10,000

General-duty citation text

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: The
employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment which were
free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely to cause death
or serious physical harm to employees in that employees were exposed to
an increased risk of developing cumulative trauma disorder(s) from tasks
that they were performing; engineering and administrative controls were
not implemented:
a) Dept 5 - Manual seat adjuster area - "W" (position seventeen on line
filmed) where employees who repeatedly perfrom the task of packing
assemblies which require various trunk and arm postures (excessive
reaching; trunk rotation, lateral bending and rotation) were exposed
to ergonomic stresses which are likely to result in cumulative trauma
disorders.
On or about 8/24/89.
Among other methods some feasible and acceptable abatement methods to
correct this hazard are:
Priority 1 - Packing bin could be "spring loaded" so as more assemblies
are added to the bin, the lower it will sink. (workers
operate at a more constant height.
Priority 2 - Teach workers to wait for the assemblies to come close to
them on the conveyor belt rather than reaching up the line
for the parts.

Issued

Feb 13, 1990

Abate by

Dec 14, 1990

Penalty

Initial $10,000 · Current $10,000

General-duty citation text

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: The
employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment which were
free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely to cause death
or serious physical harm to employees in that employees were exposed to
an increased risk of developing cumulative trauma disorders(s) from task
that they were performing engineering and administrative controls were
not implemented:
a) Dept. 5 - "Cellular" Manual seat adjuster area - 2nd floor modular
line 2 (fourth position on line filmed) where employees who
repeatedly perform the tasks of hanging and attaching springs and
packing assemblies which reuire various trunk, arm and wrist postures
(repetitiveness, prolonged grasp; trunk flexion and rotation, and
excessive reaching) were exposed to ergonomic stresses which are
likely to result in cumulative trauma disorders.
On or about 8/24/89.
Priority 1 - Provide a tool with a large diameter and longer handle to
allow power grip.
- Raise the table height to accommodate sitting.
- Separate packing and the spring attachment tasks, e.g.,
redesign workstation to provide a buffer for the storage
of parts before packing.
- Provide spring-loaded stacking bins.
Priority 2 - Consider mechanizing spring attachment.
also
- Fatigue mat is needed for worker to stand on.

Issued

Feb 13, 1990

Abate by

Dec 14, 1990

Penalty

Initial $10,000 · Current $10,000

General-duty citation text

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: The
employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment which were
free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely to cause death
or serious physical harm to employees in that employees were exposed to
an increased risk of developing cumulative trauma disorder(s) from tasks
that they were performing; engineering and administrative controls were
not implemented:
a) Dept. 5 manual seat adjuster area - line1 - (second half of "jump"
line filmed) where employees who repeatedly perform the task of
hanging and attaching springs onto assemblies which require various
arm, wrist and hand postures (forearm supination; pinch grip, elbow
flexion and repetitiveness) were exposed to ergonomic stresses which
are likely to result in cumulative trauma disorders.
On or about 8/24/89.
Among other methods some feasible and acceptable abatement methods to
correct this hazard are:
Priority 1 - Allow job rotation.
- Provide arm support.
- Provide tool with large diameter handle to allow power
grip.
- Provide sufficient leg room for employees and provide
height adjustable seating.
Priority 2 - Consider mechanization of task.

Issued

Feb 13, 1990

Abate by

Dec 14, 1990

Penalty

Initial $10,000 · Current $10,000

General-duty citation text

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: The
employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment which were
free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely to cause death
or serious physical harm to employees in that employees were exposed to
an increased risk of developing cumulative trauma disorder(s) from tasks
that they were performing; engineering and administrative controls were
not implemented:
a) Dept. 5 - Manual seat adjuster area - line 1 - (second half of "jump"
line filmed) where employees who repeatedly perform the task of
packing assemblies which require various trunk postures
(repetitiveness; extreme trunk rotation and flexion) were exposed to
ergonomic stresses which are likely to result in cumulative trauma
disorders.
On or about 8/24/89.
Among other methods some feasible and acceptable abatement methods to
correct this hazard are:
Priority 1 - Provide spring loaded bin.
- Teach workers safety in lifting techniques.

Issued

Feb 13, 1990

Abate by

Dec 14, 1990

Penalty

Initial $10,000 · Current $10,000

General-duty citation text

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: The
employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment which were
free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely to cause death
or serious physical harm to employees in that employees were exposed to
an increased risk of developing cumulative trauma disorder(s) from taskS
that they were performing; engineering and administrative controls were
not implemented:
a) Dept. - Modular line #2 - "W" body (second position filmed) where
employees who repeatedly perform the tasks of reaching for parts
on the conveyor line and operating press activated by palm buttons
which requires various arm and wrist postures (repetitive arm
extension, left shoulder internal rotation; thumb extension) were
exposed to ergonomic stresses which are likely to result in
cumulative trauma disorders.
On or about 8/28/90.
Among other methods some feasible and acceptable abatement methods to
correct this hazard are:
Priority 1 - Provide sufficient leg room and a height adjustable swivel
chair with foot rest.
- Redesign/reduce the height of the encasement of the thumb
buttons.
Priority 2 - Place palm press on an angled surface with wrist support.
- Change the angle between the conveyor belt and the machine
to 90 degress to reduce left arm extension and shoulder
rotation.

Issued

Feb 13, 1990

Abate by

Dec 14, 1990

Penalty

Initial $10,000 · Current $10,000

General-duty citation text

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: The
employer did not furnish employment and a plae of employment which were
free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely to cause death
or serious physical harm to employees in that employees were exposed to
an increased risk of developing cumulative trauma disorder(s) from tasks
that they were performing; engineering and administrative controls were
not implemented:
a) Dept. 1 - Modular line #2 - "W" body (third position filmed), where
employees who repeatedly perform the tasks of using tongs to feed
parts into the press which requires various trunk, arm and wrist
postures (trunk slightly bent forward; arms flexed and elbow slightly
extended; shoulders asymetric; forearm supinated; ulnar deviation of
wrist) and also using palm button to activate the press while holding
tongs which require various arm and wrist postures (forearm pronated;
wrist extended; grasp of tongs), were exposed to various ergonomic
stresses likely to cause cumulative trauma disorders.
On or about 8/28/89.
Among other methods some feasible and acceptable abatement methods to
correct this hazard are:
Priority 1 - Provide angled tongs to reduce ulnar deviation.
Also, provide fatique mat for standing.

Issued

Feb 13, 1990

Abate by

Dec 14, 1990

Penalty

Initial $10,000 · Current $10,000

General-duty citation text

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: The
employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment which were
free from recoginzed hazards that were causing or likely to cause death
or serious physical harm to employees in that employees were exposed to
an increased risk of developing cumulative trauma disorder(s) from tasks
that they were performing; engineering and administrative controls were
not implemented:
a) Dept. 1 "L" Body - Notcher - where employees who repeatedly perform
the task of operating the notcher machine which requires various arm,
wrist and hand postures (arms raised above shoulder level during
repetetive cycles; force exertion on control through palm on forearm
pronation and extension; forearm pronation or supination with ulnar
deviation; pinching) were exposed to ergonomic stresses which are
likely to result in cumulative trauma disorders.
On or about 8/28/89.
Among other methods some feasible and acceptable abatement methods to
correct this hazard are:
Priority 1 - Redesign notcher machine:
a. Place machine controls at waist level;
b. Place dies on a single height or closer
(e.g. about 38" above the floor)
c. Mechanize the positioning of molding in the dies.
Priority 2 - Place moldings on racks tilted towards the operator to
reduce ulnar deviation.

Issued

Feb 13, 1990

Abate by

Dec 14, 1990

Penalty

Initial $10,000 · Current $10,000

General-duty citation text

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: The
employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment which were
free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely to cause death
or serious physical harm to employees in that employees were exposed to
an increased risk of developing cumulative trauma disorder(s) from tasks
that they were performing; engineering and administrative controls were
not implemented:
a) Dept. 6 - Swanson Final Assembly Machine ("Yellow Submarine"),
Electric seat adjuster area, Final line #1, Station #11 filmed -
where employees who repeatedly perform the task of positioning
cotter pins that hold top plates onto channels which require various
arm and wrist postures (repetitive wrist rotation combined with ulnar
deviation, flexion and pinching) were exposed to ergonomic stresses
which are likely to result in cumulative trauma disorders.
Among other methods some feasible and acceptable abatements to correct
this hazard are:
Priority 1 - Provide padded elbow/wrist support on the line's edge on
both sides of the pin drawer.
- Tilt top plate towards worker to reduce ulnar deviation.
- Provide height adjustable chair with foot rests.
Among other methods, one feasible an acceptable abatement method to
correct this hazard is the implementation of an ergonomics management
program consisting of the following four elements:
1) Worksite analysis to recognize and identify existing cumulative
trauma disorders in the workplace. This analysis should include
development and use of an ergonomic checklist and employee
questionnaire. Periodic surveys of the worksite shall be conducted
at least annually to evaluate work practices and engineering
controls. Employee participation in the ergonomic program should
be encouraged.
2) Medical management which includes accurate recordkeeping of CTD's.
the program should address early recognition, evaluation, and
referral of CTD cases, and should include conservative treatment
and conservative return to work. Systematic worksite review by
the medical team should alos be included in the program.
3) Training and education for exposed employees, including methods to
evaluate the effectiveness of the training. Re-training should be
done annually, or as operations change. Training should address
hazards associated with the job, the risks of developing CTD's,
symptoms of exposure, and how to prevent the occurrence of CTD. A
supervisor's training program should also be implemented to allow
recognition of the signs of CTD's and to reinforce the employer's
ergonomic program.
4) Hazard prevention and control which includes engineering, work
practice, and administrative controls, and personal protective
equipment where relevant.
a) Administrative controls are implemented which reduce the duration,
frequency, and severity of exposure to ergonomic stress. These
controls may include job rotation, reduction of repetitions, and
preventative maintenance of related equipment. Personal protective
equipment shall be evaluated to determine any contribution to
ergonomic stress.
b) Work practice controls are implemented which include prior work
techniques, new employee conditioning, and monitoring and
modifications as necessary to minimize ergonomic stressors.
Examples of work practice controls applicable to this workplace include:
I) Effective use of tools and equipment.
II) Adjustment of workstations to fit each worker.
III) Monitoring of new workers to ensure that they are utilizing
prescribed work techniques.
C) Engineering controls are designed by a qualified ergonomist and may
include work station redesign, tool and handle redesign, and change
of work methods. The goal of this program should be to make the job
fit the person.
Examples of engineering controls applicable to this workplace include:
I) Adjustable workstations
II) Power tools counterbalanced and suspended from above.
III) Replacement of manual clippers with power clippers.
IV) Replace of manual wire strippers with power strippers
(esp. terminal machine).
V) Parts containers with indented fronts which tilt toward workers.
VI) Larger grips and padded hand tools.
VII) Curved tip soldering irons.

Issued

Feb 13, 1990

Abate by

Dec 14, 1990

Penalty

Initial $10,000 · Current $10,000

General-duty citation text

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: The
employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment which were
free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely to cause death
or serious physical harm to employees in that employees were exposed to
an increased risk of developing cumulative trauma disorder(s) from tasks
that they were performing engineering and administrative controls were
not implemented:
a) Dept. 4 - Encapsulated glass window molding ("L" body filmed) where
employees who repeatedly perform the task of operating the injection
molder machines and also scraping windows which require various arm,
trunk, wrist, and hand posture (excessive reaching; flexion;
extension and twisting of trunk while exerting force; wrist flexion
and ulner abduction in a pinch grip) were exposed to ergonomic
stresses which are likely to result cumulative trauma disorders.
On or about 9/6/89.
Among other methods some feasible and acceptable abatement methods to
correct this hazard are:
Priority 1 - Design an appropriate (ergonomic) tool for scraping glass.
Priortiy 2 - Provide shorter reaching distances (e.g. storage bin
should be within easy reach of machine operator even though
it is accessed only once a minute.
- Working levels should be adjusted/adjustable.

Issued

Feb 13, 1990

Abate by

Dec 14, 1990

Penalty

Initial $10,000 · Current $10,000

General-duty citation text

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: The
employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment which were
free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely to cause death
or serious physical harm to employees in that employees were exposed to
an increased risk of developing cumulative trauma disorder(s) from tasks
that they were performing; engineering and administrative controlls were
not implemented:
a) Dept. 4 - Encapsulated glass window molding ("L" body filmed) where
employees who repeatedly perform the tasks of glass trimming and
cleaning which requires various arm, wrist and trunk posture
(repetitive pronation/supination an flexion/extension of forearm
and wrist; pinch of tool with force to stabilize the tool adequately;
trunk flexion, extension and twisting) were exposed to ergonomic
stresses which are likely to result in cumulative truama disorders.
On or about 9/6/89.
Among other methods some flexible and acceptable abatement methods to
correct this hazard are:
Priority 1 - Design an ergonomic handle for the razor blade tool.
Priority 2 - Adjust work and reaching height, i.e.,
a) A chute that guides windows down from molder platform to
the workstation at floor levels, with a separate buffer
area for storage.
b) Tilting of the work surface towards the worker to reduce
trunk flexion and reaching of the side of the window(s)
away from the worker.

Issued

Feb 13, 1990

Abate by

Dec 14, 1990

Penalty

Initial $10,000 · Current $10,000

General-duty citation text

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: The
employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment which were
free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely to cause death
or serious physical harm to employees in that employees were exposed to
an increased risk of developing cumulative trauma disorder(s) from tasks
that they were performing; engineering and administrative controls were
not implemented:
a) Dept 4 - Encapsulated glass window molding ("L" body filmed) where
employees who repeatedly perform the task of packing windows which
requires various trunk, arm and wrist postures; trunk flexion;
shoulders asymetric; arm flexion and elbow extension; pinch grip)
were exposed to ergonomic stresses which are likely to result in
cumulative trauma disorders.
On or about 9/6/89.
Among other methods some feasible and acceptable abatement methods to
correct this hazard are:
Priority 1 - Make the bin accessible from both sides or
Raise height of bin and tilt it towards the worker(s).

Issued

Feb 13, 1990

Abate by

Dec 14, 1990

Penalty

Initial $10,000 · Current $10,000

General-duty citation text

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: The
employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment which were
free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely to cause death
or serious physical harm to employees in that employees were exposed to
an increased risk of developing cumulative trauma disorder(s) from tasks
that they were performing; engineering and administrative controls were
not implemented:
a) Dept. 4 - Encapsulated glass- Glass Salvage - where employees who
repeatedly perform the task of scraping PVC moldings off windows
which requires various arm and wrist postures (force; frequent finger
and wrist movement and frequent moves to extremes of ulnar-radial
deviation; elbow extension) were exposed to ergonomic stresses, which
are likely to result in cumulative trauma disorders.
On or about 9/6/89.
Among other methods feasible and acceptable abatement methods to
correct this hazard are:
Priority 1 - Provide a larger handled tool (perpendicular handle).
Priority 2 - Also on the tool handle, provide an anchor area for the
thumb to rest on when guiding the tool in fine work.
Priority 3 - Provide better fitting gloves.

Issued

Feb 13, 1990

Abate by

Dec 14, 1990

Penalty

Initial $10,000 · Current $10,000

General-duty citation text

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: The
%%
employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment which were
free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely to cause death
or serious physical harm to employees in that employees were exposed to
an increased risk of developing cumulative trauma disorder(s) from tasks
that they were performing; engineering and administrative controls were
not implemented:
a) Dept. 55 - Rackstripping, where employees who repeatedly lift racks
weighing between 17 and 28 pounds and place them in baths, cut wires
and rewire which requires various trunk and hand postures (trunk
flexion over baths and high force for hand cutting wires) were
exposed to ergonomic stresses likely to result in cumulative trauma
disorders.
On or about 9/6/89.
Among other methods some feasible and acceptable abatement methods to
correct this hazard are:
Priority 1 - Provide a mechanized overhead lifting device to lift and
move racks.
Priority 3 - Provide longer handles on the wire cutter.
NOTE: FEASIBLE ABATEMENT METHODS WERE PRIORITIZED ON A SCALE OF 1
(MOST EFFECTIVE OR URGENT) THROUGH 3 (LONG TERM SOLUTION).
In conjunction with specific methods of abatement outlined above. The
following procedures and controls should be implemented to reduce the
incidence of cumulative trauma disorder:
1) Identification of all current employees who experience symptoms
generally associated with cumulative trauma disorders. The department
and job title at which each employees was working at the time of
diagnosis/experiencing symptoms, the type of cumulative trauma
disorder diagnosed and the activity in which each employee was
engaged at the time of the illness/injury shall be identified.
2) Survey all operations and conduct an in-depth analysis of all jobs to
identify stressors which may be produced by the environment, tools or
work methods which are likely to cause cumulative trauma problems.
Citation 1 identifies the tasks evaluated by OSHA consultant(s) as
high risk.
3) Based on the survey and job analysis, evaluate feasiblity of controls
and then implement changes to reduce the hazards. Whenever possible,
hazards must be reduced by making engineering changes. Changes in
work practices and administrative controls (such as job enlargement
or rotation) can be considered only if engineering changes are not
possible.
- Employees shall be trained in the controls implemented.
- See Appendix A for general comments concerning feasibility of some
control methods.
4) Implement a workplace education and awareness program aimed at the
maintenance of musculoskeletal health and prevention of illness and
injuries.
a) Provide general ergonomics training to familarize production workers
on the medical aspects of cumulative trauma disorder; the importance
of early reporting and treatment; the movements and postures that
aggravate cumulativetrauma disorders, and activities that may be
identified as useful in preventing cumulative trauma disorders.
Personnel shall also be educated on the medical management protocol
developed to deal with cumulative trauma disorder related illnesses/
injuries.
- This generalized training shall be performed at least annually.
- All new production personnel shall receive this general training
during orientation.
b) All employees working at jobs determined to be causing or likely to
cause cumulative trauma disorder hazards will receive job specific
ergonomics training. The program shall also include education and
training for foremen, supervisors, management, engineers, nurses and
physicians on the high risk jobs and shall cover the least stressful
way to perform these jobs, the stressors responsible for causing and
aggravating cumulative trauma disorders; cumulative trauma disorder
prevention with emphasis on early symptom recognition, and medical
management protocol developed to deal with cumulative trauma disorder
related illnesses/injuries.
- This specific training shall be performed at least annually.
5) Implement a medical surveillance and treatment program for employees
exposed to cumulative trauma disorders. Specific efforts should be
expended in identifying and reducing obstacles that prevent or deter
a worker with symtoms from reporting such symptoms.
a) Establish baseline health surveillance for pre-employment and/or
re-employment with special attention to muscular aberrations and
flexibility, strength, stamina testing and aerobic capacity. (Note:
to minimize abuse of such placement procedures, it is necessary to
identify high risk jobs and quantify the required job demands.
Workers shall be matched to jobs as a function of specific job
demands and work capacities.)
b) Medical examinations and counseling of employees as soon as symptoms
generally associated with cumulative trauma disorders are reported.
Detailed examinations of each employees' specific work history shall
be performed, and medical treatment including ice therapy, anti-
inflammatory medications and physical/exercise therapy, shall be
considered where appropriate.
c) Where recommended by a physician, employees with diagnosed cumulative
trauma disorders shall be given sufficient time to heal. A return to
work program, which may include job transfer, rehabilitation,
physical therapy, light duty assignment, gradual reconditioning,
engineering changes or other methods, shall be developed. A returning
worker will be assigned a job that will not further exacerbate the
cumulative trauma disorder symptoms. (See Appendix B which identifies
the tasks evaluated by OSHA Consultant(s) as low risk.)
d) Failure to honor medical restrictions shall be clearly documented
along with the objective reasons that support such actions.
e) Medical records shall include descriptive diagnosis, specifying which
muscles, tendons, nerves, etc., are affected, as well as treatments
prescribed.
f) Employees shall be alerted to the minimal effectiveness of surgical
interventions, especally when returning to a job with high risk
factors, and to use and limitation of wristbands or splints.
g) Employees shall be prohibited from returning to their former jobs if
analyzed as either moderate or high risk potential until the work
environment has been modified to the extend that the risk of
recurrent injury/illness has been minimized. Jobs analyzed as
moderate risk may not be utilized as light duty assignments. (See
Appendix C which identifies the task evaluated by OSHA Consultant(s)
as moderate risk.)
h) No employees shall be discriminated against because they reasonably
request and visit the medical facility or because they have diagnosed
cumulative trauma disorder problems.
6) A uniform medical management protocol for cumulative trauma disorders
shall be developed and implemented. All physicians and nurses shall
be trained to use this protocol which will include the following:
a) Standardized physical examination, medical history and recording
form. The examination will at least include inspection, palpation
and range of motion testing.
b) Specified protocols for the treatment of employees with positive
physical signs on examination as well as those with symptoms but no
physical signs. Splints should not be used during working activities
unless it is determined that no deviation or bending of the splinted
limb is required on the job.
c) Re-evaluation shall be scheduled in no less than three days. If the
condition worsens further medical management shall not be undertaken
without concurrent efforts to reduce the physical stresses of the job
by such measures as job modification, work practice changes, etc.
If the condition is unchanged, a further evaluation shall be
scheduled in no less than three days.
d) All recommendations for surgery for cumulative trauma disorders will
be referred for a second opinion, where permitted by applicable
state law.
e) Clearly written job descriptions, which include information such as
production quotes an employee is expected to meet for a specific
job; weights of parts; postures, etc., shall be provided to all
consultant medical officers evaluating employees for cumulative
trauma disorders.
ABATEMENT SCHEDULE
STEP 1-
Identification of all current employees who experience symptoms
generally associated with cumulative trauma disorders.
STEP 2-
Submit to the Area Director a written, detailed plan of abatement
outlining a schedule for the implementation of engineering and/or
administrative measures to control employee exposures to cumulative
trauma disorders. The plan shall include at a minimum, target dates for
the following actions which must be consistent with the abatement dates
required by this citation.
a) Evaluation of the extent and location of the hazard sources;
b) Evaluation of control measure options;
c) Selection of optimum control measurs;
d) Determination of control measure design;
e) Ordering and delivery of equipment and material;
f) Installation of control measures;
g) Training of personnel;
h) Implementation of a medical surveillance and treatment program for
cumulative trauma disorders;
i) Establishment of a uniform medical management protocol for cumulative
trauma disorders.
All proposed control measures shall be evaluated for each particular use
by a technically qualified person. Ninety (90) day progress reports are
required during the abatement period.
STEP 3-
Correction shall be completed by the implementation of feasible
engineering and/or administrative controls and their effectiveness at
achieving compliance verified.
APPENDIX A.
General comments concerning feasiblity of some control measures (as per
OSHA consultant(s) evaluation of 95 filmed tasks):
Workstation design is the common cause for the risk of developing neck
and shoulder pain. The main features are the low heights of some
conveyor belts and high, distant locations of machine controls and
workbenches.
The existing design of such elements does not render chairs or semi-
standing stools as effective solutions. Unless sufficient leg room is
provided under the conveyor lines to allow closer and higher access to
workbenches, chairs and stools will aggravate the situation. A variety
of tasks which require the worker to move away from a confined station
is a better solution. By raising the underside of conveyor linesmore
leg room is cleared. The workstation then should accommodate both
standing and sitting positions. Height adjustable swiveling chairs are
recommended in such cases.
Foot rails and floor mats are often recommended for the existing con-
figuration to reduce the risk of back problems. Similarly, the
consultants recommend that a padded elbow or wrist support be mounted on
the edge of conveyor line(s) to reduce the risk of cervico-brachial
pain. Distant location and a deep design of bins or containers are often
the cause of back pain. Spring-loaded bins could reduce most of the
trunk bending movements. Smaller bins on a tiltable base could enable a
closer access to lines and reduce the amount of trunk rotations,
For some jobs, they noted that a new design of the product would
alleviate most of the problems. For example, an easier access to the
socket of the electric seat adjusters would prevent many of the awkward
motions that are required now during assembly.
APPENDIX B.
OSHA CONSULTANT'S REPORT OF LOW RISK TASKS
ITEM NO.      LOCATION/DESCRIPTION OF TASK
1    Dept. 6, Electric Seat Adjuster Motor Assembly, (first position on
line) where employee places motors and plate onto fixture.
Low risk job in general.
2    Dept. 6, Electric Seat Adjuster Motor Assembly, (second position on
line) where employee lifts sub assembly and places on fixture.
Low risk job.
3    Dept. 6, Electric Seat Adjuster Motor Assembly, (third position on
line) where employee attaches part from job 1 and job 2 with screws
and adds plate.
Low risk job.
6    Dept. 6, Electric Seat Adjuster Motor Assembly, (sixth position on
line) where employee inserts harness into assemblies.
Low risk job, except for right thumb, which is a Medium risk.
11   Dept. 6, Electric Seat Adjuster Motor Assembly, where employee
tests assemblies on weld unit.
Low risk job.
12   Same as Job #11.
18   Dept. 5, Manual Seat Adjuster Area, Line 1 (second half of jump
line filmed) where employee assembles knob onto lock bar.
Low risk job.
20   Dept. 5, Manual Seat Adjuster Area, Line 1, (second half of jump
line filmed) where employee performs the task of marrying parts.
Low risk job, except for right thumb, which is a Medium risk.
21a  Dept. 5, Manual Seat Adjuster Area, Line 1, (second half of jump
line filmed) where employee operates the "cycle" machine (puts ball
21b  & guide on end).
Low risk job.
24   Dept. 5, Manual Seat Adjusters, Line #4, where employee placed rear
support onto conveyor belt.
Low risk job.
25   Dept. 5, Manual Seat Adjusters, Line #4, where employee rivets
upper channel to rear support.
Low risk job.
26   Same as #25
28   Dept. 5, Manual Seat Adjusters, Line #4, where employee picks up
channels and puts them on conveyor line.
Low risk job.
29   Dept. 5, Manual Seat Adjusters, Line #4, where employee attaches
clip and rivets.
Low risk job.
30   Same as #29
31   Same as #29
32   Dept. 5, Manual Seat Adjusters, Line #4, where employee marries
upper channel to lower channel.
Low risk job.
33   Dept. 5, Manual Seat Adjusters, Line #4, where employee operates
"cycle" machine (puts ball & guide on).
Low risk job.
36   Dept. 5, Manual Seat Adjusters, Line #4,, where employee checks
notch position (taps with a rubber mallet).
Low risk job.
38   Dept. 5, Transfer Press Operator (adjacent to line 4) where
employee performs the task of operating abutting mechanical power
press.
Low risk except for the right wrist, which is Medium risk.
39   Dept. 5, Transfer Press Operator, (see above #38).
Low risk, except for the forearm and wrist, which are Medium risks.
43   Dept. 6, Old RWC Line, where employee puts two parts together and
places on machine fixture.
Low risk job.
44   Dept. 6, Old RWC Line, employee puts front and rear supports onto
channel.
Low risk job.
46   Dept. 6, Old RWC Line, where employee picks up two parts from bin
and puts on machine fixture.
Low risk job.
48   Dept. 5, "W" Line, where employee visually inspects parts coming
out of "Swanson" and places parts on belt.
Low risk job.
49   Dept. 5, "W" Line, where employee places part onto fixture (cycles)
and places part on belt.
Low risk job.
51   Dept. 5, "W" Line, where employee places part onto machine and hits
palm buttons, turns part over and hits palm buttons again.
Low risk job.
56   Dept. 5, "W" Line, where employee rivets sails.
Low risk job.
61   Dept. 5, "W" Line, where employee performs "salvage" Job (checks
parts and repairs as necessary).
Low risk job.
64a  Dept. 9, "Cellular" Manual Seat Adj., where employee attaches knob
to lockbar.
Low risk job.
71   Dept. 5, Line 1, Manual Seat Adj., where employee hits part with
mallet (inspects rivets).
Low risk job.
75a  Dept. 1, Modular Line No. 9, where employee uses brake machine
#28695.
Low risk job.
76   Dept. 1, Modular Line No. 9, where employee operates Newberry
Molder #5276.
Low risk job.
77   Dept. 1, Modular Line no. 9, where employee tapes, trims and cleans
ends of molding.
Low risk job.
80   Dept. 1, "L" Body, where employee hammers felt strips around clips.
Low risk job.
82   Dept 6, "Swanson Final Assembly", Line #1, ("Yellow Submarine"),
where employee puts plate onto machine fixture.
Low risk job.
85   Dept. 6, "Swanson Final Assembly", Line #1, ("Yellow Submarine"),
where employee inserts springs.
Low risk job.
APPENDIX C.
OSHA CONSULTANT'S REPORT OF MEDIUM RISK TASKS
ITEM NO. LOCATION/DESCRIPTION OF TASK
5    Dept. 6, Electric Seat Adjuster Motor Assembly, (fifth position on
the line), where employees who repeatedly perform the task of
inserting harnesses into assemblies. Requires various arm, wrist
and hand postures (pinch grip, wrist deviation high frequency from
pro- to supination and hyperexteded thumb).
Note: Medium to high for thumb especially.
7    Dept. 6, Electric Seat Adjuster Motor Assembly, (seventh position
on the line), where employees who repeatedly perform the task of
lining up motor fittings with a hand tool and also ensuring
harnesses are attached to the assembly. Requires various arm, thumb
and wrist postures (full supination to pronation of forearm, wrist
flexion, ulnar abducation, repetitiveness, trunk flexion, arm
flexion and elbow extension).
10   Dept. 6, Electric Seat Adjuster Motor Assembly, (tenth position on
the line) where employee who repeatedly performs the task of
connecting cables to assemblies which requires various arm, wrist
and hand postures (repetitive wrist/forearm rotations and
repetitive thumb abduction and pinching).
16   Dept. 5, Transfer Press Operation (one of two such stations
adjacent to line 1) where employee who repeatedly performs the task
of operating abutting mechanical power presses which requires
various arm, wrist and hand postures (wrist fully extended,
supinated and occasionally deviated ulnarly or radially).
22   Dept. 5, Manual Seat Adjuster Area, Line 1, second half of "jump"
&   line (seventh and eighth positions on the line) where employee who
23   repeatedly performs the task of double hit riveting plates onto
assemblies which requires various arm, wrist and hand postures
(grasp of part with slightly pronated forearm, possible vibration/
impact).
34   Dept. 5, Manual Seat Adjuster Area, Line 4 (eleventh position on
the line) where employee who performs the task of hanging springs
onto assemblies. Requires various arm and wrist postures
(repetitive wrist rotation).
40   Dept. 6, Electric Seat Adjuster Area, Top Plate Line, where
&   employee uses tongs to feed parts into mechanical power presses
41   which requires various arm, wrist and hand postures (elbow, flexion
ulnar deviaton at wrist, prolonged grasp).
47   Dept. 5, Manual Seat Adjuster Area, "W" Line (first position on the
line) where employee who repeatedly performs the task of lifting
parts out of bins and lays them out (job set up) on the conveyor
belt which requires various trunk and arm postures (slight but
frequent trunk rotations while lifting, external rotation of right
shoulder and elbow).
50   Dept. 5, Manual Seat Adjuster Area, "W" Line (fourth position on
the line) where employee repeatedly performs the task of riveting
lock bars onto assemblies ("new" two-hand-trip riveter) which
requires various arm, wrist and hand postures (force exerted on
thumb, thumb is extended or abducted, forearm rotated while
shoulder is elevated).
52   Dept. 5, Manual Seat Adjuster Area, "W" Line (sixth and seventh
&   positions on line) where employee repeatedly performs the task of
53   riveting clips (activators) onto assemblies which requires various
arm and wrist postures (extended arms, radial deviation of wrist).
55   Dept. 5, Manual Seat Adjuster Area, "W" Line, where employee
employee repeatedly performs the task of screwing sails onto
assemblies which requires various arm and wrist posture (constant
static grip of pneumatic screwdriver, repetitiveness).
58   Dept. 5, Manual Seat Adjuster Area, "W" Line (position thirteen
on the line) where employee repeatedly performs the task of
performing the final torque on assemblies which requires various
trunk and arm postures (excessive traunk flexion with rotation;
excessive reaching while lifting parts; excessive holding of parts
during positioning).
59   Dept. 5, Manual Seat Adjuster Area, "W" Line, (position fourteen on
the line) where employee repeatedly performs the task of performing
the final torque on assemblies which requires various trunk, arm
and hand postures (excessive trunk flexion with rotation; excessive
reaching while lifting; excessive holding of parts during
positioning and stress to IP joints of fingers related to palm
buttons).
60   Dept. 5, Manual Seat Adjuster Area, "W" Line, (postion fifteen)
where employee who repeatedly performs the task of cycling
assemblies which requires various arm and wrist postures (force
through wrist to elbow and shoulder and arm abduction).
63   Dept. 5, Manual Seat Adjuster Area, "W" Line, where employee who
repeatedly performs the task of riveting brackets onto sails while
seated which requires various arm and wrist postures (excessive
reaching, wrist extension and ulnar deviation).
64   Dept. 9, "Cellular" Manual Seat Adjuster Area, Modular line 2,
(first position) where employee repeatedly performs the task of
attaching (riveting) lockbars onto upper channels which requires
various trunk, arm and wrist postures (trunk rotation and flexion,
excessive reaching and wrist extension).
65   Dept. 9, "Cellular" Manual Seat Adjuster Area, Modular line 2,
(second position) where employee who repeatedly perform the task of
riveting rear supports to lower channels, marrying parts and
inserting ball and guide parts into assemblies which require
various trunk, arm and wrist postures (one arm extended and
shoulder internally rotated and abducted; trunk flexion and
excessive reaching with the other arm; extension of elbow, wrists
and fingers).
66   Dept. 9, "Cellular" Manual Seat Adjuster Area, Modular line 2,
(third position) where employee repeatedly performs the task of
cycling and inserting ball and guide parts into assemblies which
requires various trunk postures (flexion and rotation).
68   Dept. 5, Manual Seat Adjuster Area, Line 1, second half of jump
&    line filmed (seventh and eighth positions on the line) where
69   employee repeatedly performs the task of double hit riveting plates
onto assemblies which requires various arm, wrist and hand postures
(trunk flexion, grasp of part with slightly pronated forearm and
possible vibration/impact through hand to elbow).
73   Dept. 1, Modular Line #2, "W" Body (first position) where employee
repeatedly performs the tasks of operating the bender and putting
parts on the chute which requires various trunk and arm postures
(trunk flexion and rotation, arm flexion, elbow extension, forearm
rotation, repetitiveness and arm abduction).
NOTE: Medium risk if maintained throughout the shift wihtout
rotation.
75b  Dept. 1, Modular Line #9, Window Molding "Cavalier" (first
position) where employee repeatedly performs the task of operating
the bender which requires various trunk and arm postures (trunk
flexion & rotation arms flexed).
NOTE: High risk if no job rotation allowed.
78   Dept. 1, "L" Body, 3 hit fabrication treatment where employee
repeatedly performs the task of positioning parts in dies and
operating the mechanical power press which requires various trunk,
arm and wrist postures (arm abduction, forearm pronation, ulnar
deviation with pinching, neck rotation, trunk lateral bending and
some shoulder asymetry).
81   Dept. 1, "L" Body, Installation of retention clips, where employee
repeatedly performs the tasks of moving molding strips to and from
requires various traunk, arm and wrist postures (forearm pronation;
radial deviation; repetitive trunk rotation and arm extension;
laterial bending; arm abduction and thumb abduction).
84   Dept. 6, Swanson Final Assembly Machine ("Yellow Submarine")
electric seat adjusters, Final Line No. 1, Station 18, where
employee repeatedly performs the task of putting brackets into
position which requires various arms and wrist postures (arm
flexion and abduction, wrist rotation, combined with ulnar
deviation, flexion and grasp).
86   Dept. 6, Swanson Final Assembly Machine ("Yellow Submarine"),
Electric Seat Adjuster, Final Line No. 1, Station #20, where
employee repeatedly performs the task of aligning top plates which
requires various arm and wrist postures (rapid ulnar and radial
deviation).

Issued

Jan 13, 1990

Abate by

Dec 14, 1990

Penalty

Initial $10,000 · Current $10,000

General-duty citation text

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: The
employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment which were
free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely to cause death
or serious physical harm to employees in that employees were exposed to
an increased risk of developing cumulative trauma disorder(s) from tasks
that they were performing; engineering and administrative controls were
not implemented.
a) Dept. 6 - Electric seat adjuster motor assembly (ninth position on
line 1 filmed) where employees who repeatedly perform the task of
plugging assemblies into electric assist units and also inserting
cables which require various trunk, arm, wrist, and hand postures
(excessive reaching/lifting of assembly in trunk flexion; excessive
pinch grasp) were exposed to ergonomic stresses likely to cause
cumulative trauma.
On or about 8/17/89.
Among other methods some feasible and acceptable abatement methods to
correct this hazard are:
Priority 1 - Redesign cable casing.
- Redesign glove type.
Priority 2 - Redesign work space to allow sitting or standing.
- Provide swiveling height adjustable chair with foot rest.
Priority 3 - Redesign work station to include a buffer to let the work
be self-paced.

Issued

Dec 21, 1989

Abate by

Jan 19, 1990

Penalty

Initial $10,000 · Current $10,000

Issued

Dec 21, 1989

Abate by

Jan 19, 1990

Penalty

Initial $10,000 · Current $10,000