A conveyor system that is designed with ergonomics in mind gives work pleasure and increases efficiency. Below a number of recommendations as to how to integrate ergonomics into the conveyor line follow. The rules given below are intended as guidance and each workstation must be adapted to the operator and the height of the items handled.
When doing sedentary work on packaging lines, the person should always work facing the belt.
Working width must be max. 80 cm, but the
reaching distance for frequent movements
must be max. 20-30 cm from the front edge of the table. For less frequent movements, the distance must be max. 40 cm from the edge of the table.
Reaching height must be max. 25 cm above the table and within reaching distance.
The working area for frequent movements must generally not exceed 90° and for less frequent movements 180°.
Leg space should be free or min. 65 cm in height. At the feet, the depth should be min. 70 cm measured from the table edge, and 50 cm at the knees.
Reaching height should be max. 135 cm and never above shoulder height.
The working area for frequent movements must, just like sedentary work, be max. 90°, and for less frequent movements 180°.
The width of the workplace should be at least 100 cm. Reaching distance for frequent movements should be max. 25 cm from the front edge of the table and for less frequent movements max. 50 cm from the front edge of the table.
Working height must be easily adjustable to suit the height of the operator and the products handled.
The working height for men should be 98-118 cm.
The working height for women should be 90-107 cm.
A packaging line should preferably have non-reflecting surfaces and rounded edges. Wherever possible, chairs should be upholstered and foot stools height adjustable. The packaging line should be fed from a position close to the filling point which should have an appropriate height, preferably height adjustable.
Consider also environmental conditions such as:
For more information about ergonomics in the packaging line, please contact SOCO SYSTEM on +44 1 782 274100 or info@socosystem.co.uk.