Development of an Ergonomic Guide through the Use of Participatory Ergonomics Team Approach at Water and Wastewater Utilities

This project evaluated the effectiveness of using a participatory ergonomics team approach in lowering risk and preventing musculoskeletal injuries among drinking water and wastewater industry workers. Since workers are experts in their jobs, participatory ergonomics maximizes their involvement by empowering them to use their knowledge to identify and address ergonomic problems and to develop effective solutions to improve working conditions, safety, productivity, quality, morale and/or comfort. In addition to a research report, a handbook was developed to help utilities understand how to implement a participatory ergonomics framework. Tailored Collaboration Partners: Contra Costa Water District, Columbus Water Works, East Bay Municipal Utility District, Los Angeles Department of Water & Power, San Francisco Public Utilities Commission, and Tualatin Valley Water. Published in 2019.