SMYRNA, TN—A maintenance technician has been killed in an accident at the body shop of Nissan’s assembly plant here. The technician, Michael Hooper, 43, had worked at the plant for 21 years.
To prevent ergonomic problems, engineers must understand key risk factors and implement equipment to counteract them.
June 3, 2013
Workplace ergonomics is getting a lot of attention nationwide in response to a sharp increase in incidents of repetitive strain injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome. For the affected employee, such injuries often mean repeated surgery, intractable pain and the inability to work. For the employer, ultimately, they mean higher costs.
PITTSBURGH—A 12-year study by the University of Pittsburgh has found no statistically significant elevations in overall cancer rates among the workforce at the Pratt & Whitney jet engine assembly plant in North Haven, CT. The investigation was begun in 2000 after several workers were diagnosed with brain cancer.
HARTWELL, GA—OSHA has cited Tenneco Automotive for 13 safety and health violations following an inspection at the supplier’s assembly plant here. Proposed fines total $62,000.
NEWMARKET, ON—Six people were taken to hospital following an explosion at automotive supplier Dortec Industries’ assembly plant here. The blast was due to a minor electrical explosion that was isolated to one assembly line.
SMYRNA, TN—An employee of an automation supplier was killed Thursday at Nissan’s assembly plant here when a large electrical panel fell on him while it was being moved.