A decision model for the analysis of ergonomic investments

Costs associated with worker injuries can be high and some suggest investments in ergonomic solutions can lower those costs. However, many employers are still unsure if investing in various ergonomic solutions will generate benefits such as increased production and/or reduce workmen's compensation expenses. Estimating current losses and predicting possible gains provide most of the information needed to decide upon ergonomic investment. This paper presents a model employers can use to predict cost savings from ergonomic investments given certain input factors, including current losses, cost of implementation, and success of implementation.