Ergonomics for Clinical Support & Diagnostic Services

Pharmacy

Pharmacists and Pharmacy Technicians may be at risk of developing Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) such as Carpel Tunnel Syndrome, Tendonitis, and Tenosynovitis from activities that involve repetitive tasks, forceful exertions, awkward postures or contact stress (e.g., opening/closing bottle lids, preparing IV medications, or computer tasks such as typing). Using ergonomics to modify pharmacy tasks will decrease the risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (OSHA, 2009).

 

On this page:

Guidelines & Toolkits

Articles

Other Resources

Also refer to Resources on the Computer Workstation Page

An Ergonomics Guide for Hospital Pharmacies from the Occupational Health and Safety Agency for Health Care in British Columbia (OHSAH)

Test of the Ergonomics and Usability of Five Liquid Dosage Pipettes (2006). Nevala, N., and Lintula, M. International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics. 36(3):257-263.

Resources from the Health and Safety Executive, UK

Pipettes and syringes - good design and safe use

Fume cupboards and bio-safety cabinets

Ergonomics in the pharmaceutical industry - multiple resources

The OSHA Hospital E-Tool Healthcare Module for Pharmacy. This site contains some ideas for ergonomics as well as other common hazards that might be found in the Pharmacy.

Working Safely In Health Care a Practical Guide (2007).  Ed - D. Fell Carlson. Thomson Delmar Learning. Chapter 3 discusses how to Perform Clinical Tasks Safely by applying ergonomics principles to prevent injuries. www.Delmarhealthcare.com

Healthcare hazard control and safety management (2005). 2nd Edition. James T. Tweedy.  CRC PRess.

Ergonomics Case studies from the Navel Safety Center

• Medical Center Pharmacy – Dental Clinic - Ophthalmology Ergonomics Risk Assessment including pharmacy

• Pharmacy Ergonomics Risk Assessment

Ergonomics analysis of a hospital pharmacy. (2004). Alexander, S. Ergonomics: Analyse, Design, Evaluate – 12th Conference of the New Zealand Ergonomics Society. pp 21 – 26.

Evaluation Working Posture and Musculoskeletal Disorders Prevalence in Pharmacy Packaging Workers ( 2009). Sarmazyar, S et. al. European Journal of Scientific Research. 29 (1): 82-88.