Conclusions

Employees were and are still encouraged to comment freely on their likes and dislikes regarding their new tools. Some of the fixture innovations resulted from such comments and supervisors know that there is always room for improvements. It is very assuring to know that steps are being made in the right direction and that they are producing results.

Further advancements are always welcomed ideas and near the end of the summer, arm slings that reduce fatigue to the upper extremities, neck, and back by supporting the weight of the user’s arms were brought into the plant for visual inspectors. Attempts are currently being made to try to work these contraptions into other workstations as well, as a way to reduce muscle stress in the arms and shoulders.

Fixtures are constantly being updated and adjusted to employees’ needs and early warning signs of injury are never taken lightly. As a result, the number of cumulative trauma disorders at the company’s golf plant is dropping. Although a manual, repetitive job such as this one will never be devoid of hazard, risks can usually be reduced. The recent attempts by management are definitely a step in the right direction but the commitment must remain and employee’s health and opinions must not be overlooked.