Data from 1993 are used in order to make sure that the cost figures are stable. Since the more severe WMSD claims usually involve considerable time loss, they can continue to accrue costs for years after the date of injury. You will find that the application of ergonomics principles is most effective when used before problems result in serious injury. The goals of a proactive program should be to prevent as many workers' compensation claims as possible and to reduce the severity of those claims that do occur. Injuries that are addressed early on through an ergonomics process will often be less severe, have little or no time loss, and will allow an employee to continue on as a productive member of the company.
Employers also benefit through reduced workers' compensation costs.
Since this is a workplace guideline, it will focus on those factors at work which are under the control of employers. However, an important part of any ergonomics program is providing training to employees, in order to increase their awareness of WMSD's and their causes. This will allow them to apply the principles of ergonomics to those areas under their control, at home and at work. Read a case study on the benefits of a proactive approach.