May 14, 2003—The National Advisory Committee on Ergonomics (NACE) presented their first set of work plans on May 7 to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to assist the agency in its goal of reducing musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in the workplace. The committee’s second meeting consisted of two days of work group sessions focused on three areas: guidelines, outreach and assistance, and research.
The guidelines work group discussed factors that OSHA should use to determine specific industries for which guidelines should be developed, including injury/illness rates, population impacted, willingness of specific industry stakeholders, and taking into consideration existing successful program models.
The breakout group on outreach and assistance has already begun reviewing current OSHA outreach efforts, and will review the agency’s Web site. The group will also be identifying industries and organizations willing to share ergonomic best practices.
Based upon a recommendation of the research discussion group, NACE is recommending a symposium for published researchers on work-related MSDs. The research group also recommended that future presentations include a neurologist to discuss diagnostics as a key to effective research, and a presentation from the National Academy of Sciences.
The National Advisory Committee on Ergonomics was selected by Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao last December and is tasked with advising her and the Assistant Secretary of Labor for OSHA on ergonomic guidelines, outreach and assistance, and research. Chartered for two years, the committee is scheduled to meet again in September.
