PARTICIPATORY ERGONOMICS: ASSESSING THE IMPACT OF DIFFERENT FORMS OF INVOLVEMENT ON REPORTED OUTCOMES

In an effort to diminish the presence of ergonomic risk factors for injury, a participatory ergonomics change process was initiated in a foam manufacturing facility. An Ergonomics Change Team (ECT) with representation from various positions within the organization was established. Twenty-one changes were implemented, each resulting in ergonomic benefits. Qualitative data were collected by means of twenty-six semi-structured interviews with members of stakeholder groups. The results demonstrate generally positive outcomes for the participatory process. However, it also became clear that increased involvement of workers through direct representation on the ECT may have enhanced the ergonomics change process. The purpose of the paper is to critically examine elements of the process that contribute to meaningful participation