IRSST - Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail

Feasibility study for integrating ergonomics into the PVA-Kaizen approach

Abstract

Research in participatory ergonomics and the evolution in economic conditions make it essential to associate the improvement of occupational health and safety (OHS), including the prevention of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), with the improvement of productivity and quality in companies. The PVA-Kaizen approach, a productivity improvement program proposed by the ministry of economic regional development to Québec companies, seems to be a possible and desirable way of integrating ergonomics into this type of process. In partnership with this ministry, the CSST, and the bipartite association for the printing and related activities sector, the authors documented the feasibility of integrating the prevention of MSDs and OHS problems in general into the PVA-Kaizen approach, by using the knowledge resulting from ergonomic interventions. The results reveal that the SME directors and consultants participating in the study are interested in integrating OHS prevention into the PVA-Kaizen approach. However, the integration methods vary with the opinions of the SME directors and consultants. In fact, accompaniment in PVA-Kaizen interventions shows that integration cannot take place in the same way in all companies. It seems that the company’s experience relating to the workers’ participation in work design and in the management of continuous improvement must be taken into account.

Additional Information

Type: Project
Number: 0099-2240
Status: Completed
Year of completion: 2005
Team:
  • Georges Toulouse (IRSST)
  • Daniel Imbeau (Polytechnique Montréal)