Ergonomics Training for the Poultry Industry

UK Center for Manufacturing, with funding from the Department of Labor through the OSHA Susan Harwood Grant #46D3-HT29 program, has created training modules to assist the poultry processing industry with ergonomics training. The training is oriented toward practical solutions that help reduce the number and severity of WMSDs (workplace musculoskeletal disorders).

Given the fast pace of work in this industry and the relatively high turnover rate among workers on the lines, it was thought that the most effective and convenient way to deliver training was to offer these modules in different formats.

Modules X-Z are broader in content and intended for supervisory personnel, lead personnel, engineers, maintenance, and management.

Modules A-C are intended for line workers and focus on ergonomic awareness. We saw their primary use as a part of new employee orientation, to eliminate the need to pull workers off the line.

Formats for each module: Powerpoint slides, digital streaming video, DVD, VHS Tapes.

• The slides can be downloaded by clicking on the “download” link beneath each module or viewed on-line by clicking on .
• Poultry industry educators may order a copy on DVD or VHS Tape free of charge. Click here to request a DVD or Tape.

Menu of Modules and Contents

Worker Training Materials (English and Spanish Versions)

Module 1 - Introduction to Ergonomics for the Poultry Processing Industry
Module 2 - Early Identification of Problems
Module 3 - Risk Factors

Train the Trainer Materials (English)
Module 1 -
Module 2 - Risk Factors
Module 3 - Upper Extremities Overview
Module 4 - Workstation Design
Module 5 - Task Analysis Tools

This material was produced under grant number 46D3-HT29 from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, U.S. Department of Labor. It does not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the U.S. Department of Labor, nor does the mention of trade names, commercial products, or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. Government.

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We’re eager to hear from you. Tell us what you thought of the modules, give us your thoughts about their usefulness in your training program, help us improve them.

About the UK Center for Manufacturing
The UK Center for Manufacturing specializes in education, research and technical services for manufacturers in Kentucky, across the U.S., and internationally. A crucial link in the commercialization process, the center conducts more than 200 projects annually in manufacturing process improvement, design analysis, product development and many other engineering services. In addition to providing technical assistance to industry, the center also pursues basic and applied research in welding, brazing, machining, metal forming, painting technology and system controls and offers custom-designed education in lean manufacturing and a range of other technical areas to industry clients.