Job Design 2: Aerial Carter Columbia Southern ✓ Solved

JOB DESIGN 2 Job Design Aerial Carter Columbia Southern

Job design is the process of assembling various elements to form a job, keeping in mind the organization and individual employee requirements. Health, safety, and ergonomics should be taken into consideration, thus job design is the way set tasks are organized. Poor job design can impact the worker’s efficiency, morale, and safety. Observations from a recent video indicate that the current job design impairs employee efficiency, safety, and lowers morale.

Job efficiency refers to the ability of workers to complete more work in less time, often through the utilization of machines. However, in the video, employee efficiency was notably low. The two workers were performing a task manually that could have been completed in a matter of seconds using machinery, causing it to extend to a full minute. Given their young age, they should have been capable of completing the work more swiftly with energized effort.

Additionally, the work site was poorly arranged, with materials scattered and causing unnecessary delays. Blocks were tightly enclosed between a tractor and timber, leading to significant time consumption as workers had to carefully navigate these obstacles. Furthermore, the environment lacked safety; one worker was observed standing on an elevated surface reaching for blocks located below, which created additional risk of injury. Clearing the barriers would facilitate ease of access and improve safety standards.

According to Mbadou & Mbohwa (2013), the workers appeared to be straining their muscles, increasing the likelihood of back injuries. Repeated exposure to such poor ergonomics can lead to long-term musculoskeletal disorders, thus heightening the risk of injuries. Moreover, specific body parts such as hands, wrists, and arms were being overutilized, leading to pain and diminished capability. Consequently, safety is a significant concern in this context.

Employee morale is also adversely affected by the current job design. Observation revealed job monotony; shorter tasks lead to repetitive work, which can quickly become monotonous and demotivating. Performing the same task every few seconds over multiple days does not provide a fulfilling work experience, thereby dragging down morale. It's essential for the work environment to offer safe and challenging tasks to stimulate efficient production.

To enhance job design, the hierarchy of controls can be applied as follows: Engineering controls involve changing the physical setup of the workplace to mitigate risks and reduce the likelihood of injuries. Administrative controls relate to workplace policies and procedures that minimize workers’ exposure to hazardous conditions, though these are less effective than engineering controls as they do not eliminate hazards. As indicated by H. Landis “Lanny” Floyd (2017), they might be implemented when engineering solutions are financially unfeasible. Examples include hiring extra personnel for heavy lifting, scheduling rest breaks, and providing designated areas for tools.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) represents the least effective control since it does not negate risk exposure. Examples of PPE include knee pads and anti-vibration gloves when operating powered hand tools. The recommendations discussed align with ergonomic guidelines that advocate for well-designed jobs because an optimal working environment enhances safety and comfort, leading to improved economic performance through reduced absenteeism, turnover, elevated employee morale, and improved public relations.

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Job design is critical in modern workplaces, significantly impacting not just productivity but also the physical and psychological well-being of employees. In times when efficiency is paramount, businesses continue to innovate processes that can optimize the performance of their employees. However, this sometimes comes at a cost if job design is neglected. The implications of poor job design can be dire, not only affecting individual employees but also the overall health of the organization.

A significant issue emerging from inadequate job design is the prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs). According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH, 2021), MSDs are a leading cause of lost workdays and negatively affect many workers across various industries. Factors contributing to MSDs include awkward postures, repetitive motions, and inadequate rest. As observed in the analyzed video, workers displayed signs of excessive strain resulting from poorly arranged workstations and repetitive lifting tasks.

This strain underscores the urgent need for ergonomic interventions. As Muaidi & Shanb (2016) noted, workplaces should minimize risk factors associated with MSDs through thoughtful job design and engineering controls. Proper use of technology and machinery can significantly reduce the physical demands placed on workers. Moreover, integrating ergonomic principles into job design can help reduce the incidence of injury and increase worker satisfaction.

Administrative controls, as suggested, such as scheduling regular breaks and promoting safe lifting techniques, can also play a crucial role in alleviating strain on workers. These controls should be complemented by educational initiatives aimed at equipping employees with knowledge about safe work practices. Moreover, providing training on ergonomic lifting techniques can empower employees to take control of their workplace safety.

Furthermore, the impact on employee morale cannot be overstated. Workers who perceive their environment as unsafe or overly repetitive may exhibit lower engagement levels and increased turnover rates. Research consistently shows that engaged employees tend to be more productive and creative, while disengagement can lead to severe losses for businesses. Organizations should foster an environment that encourages employee feedback and actively seeks to improve job satisfaction through better design.

Incorporating periods of rotation among different job tasks can alleviate the monotony that often comes with repetitive work. This idea aligns with the principles of job enrichment, where employees are engaged in more meaningful work experiences. Not only does this elevate worker morale, but it also enhances overall productivity by creating a workforce that is physically healthier and more favorable towards their organizational roles.

To maximize the benefits of job design, company leadership must prioritize continuous assessment and improvement of job roles and environments. Regular evaluations can identify emerging risks and allow businesses to implement solutions promptly. A proactive approach can prevent injuries and foster a work culture focused on long-term employee health and productivity.

In conclusion, effective job design is paramount for achieving high levels of employee efficiency, morale, and safety. It requires a multimodal approach that incorporates engineering controls, administrative strategies, and comprehensive training programs. By emphasizing ergonomic principles and engaging with employees to understand their challenges, organizations can create a robust framework that promotes not only worker safety but also operational success.

References

1. H. Landis “Lanny” Floyd, P. C. (2017). COVER Story: Systematic safety. CSU LIBRARY: PLANT ENGINEERING.
2. Mbadou, A., & Mbohwa, C. (2013). The impact of work design on employee efficiency. International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, 43(4), 587-596.
3. Muaidi, Q., & Shanb, A. (2016). Prevalence causes and impact of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among physical therapists. Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, 29(4), 223-235.
4. Institute of Medicine, National Research Council, Commission on Behavioral and Social Sciences and Education, & Panel on Musculoskeletal Disorders and the Workplace. (2001). Musculoskeletal Disorders and the Workplace: Low Back and Upper Extremities. Washington, D.C.: National Academies Press.
5. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). (2021). Musculoskeletal disorders. Retrieved from CDC NIOSH Website
6. Middleworth, M. (2019). The Causes of Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs). Retrieved from ErgoPlus