Bindery Safety/Ergonomics — Finishing Without Incident

Not Always a Headliner

The most catastrophic accidents may attract bigger headlines and more attention, but ergonomics issues—repetitive motion injuries—are far more frequent. From loading pockets to moving pallets and leaning over conveyor belts, bruises, strains and sprains are fairly commonplace.

"Our greatest challenge is to reduce the amount of repetitive motion required by employees in order to maintain safe and efficient production during a 12-hour shift," notes Jim Andersen, president and CEO of The Instant Web Companies, Chanhassen, MN, which generated $124 million in 2003 sales largely through its integrated platform of print, envelope and mailing services for direct mail customers.