I am a mature student doing a course in Jewellery. Unfortunately, I
am developing RSI and Thoraxic Outward Syndrome with a great deal of
pain which is affecting my studies and now other activities. I have
been trying to find advice about the ergonomics for the jewellery
industry to see if I can learn from it and reduce the probability of
injury. I have called several ergonomists (who try to sell me
computer station products), Institutes, the UK Health and Safety with
no results.
Your site is the only place where I have found some but
I think that I need more precise postural and ergonomic guidance.
Therefore, I would be very grateful if you could kindly recommend
who to contact. I think I could be a good jeweller and would hate
having to give it up.
I look forward to your response.
Thanking you in advance
Sonia
Find a Physical Therapist or Occupational Therapist, usually
referred by your primary physician, and present your problem to them.
I have had very useful help from both skill areas.
I have degree in Ergonomics, but I would hesitate to give any advice
because you are indicating medical conditions. You best source is a
practicing surgeon.
Have to disagree. I was in the medical field for over 20 years…a
surgeon wants to do surgery. An OT (occupational therapist) or a PT
(physical therapist) who can come to where you work will give you the
best guidance. We have had them here for both the studio and office
consults…made a world of difference.
There is not a specific book on ergonomics related to jewelry work.
Metalwork can be high varied in process from one specialization to
another. A good contrast in the physical requirements might be
blacksmithing vs. engraving. Consequently the best tip I can give you
is to avoid repetitive processes which have deleterious affects with
regards to your own physical infirmities or at least break them up in
to shorter stints interspersed with other tasks or breaks. I surmise
you’ve already read this article:
Notice it also has a bibliography for you to reference for more
Work place ergonomic problems are ubiquitous for
computer users and while this has made the general public aware of
such issues.Chances are you’ll know more about jewelry work
ergonomics ( for the type of jewelry work you specialize in) than
they will. You’re doing the right thing dealing with this now rather
than later ( after you develop additional problems) and I applaud
the fact that you’re consulting ergonomics professionals. Try to get
them to make a studio visit rather than just offer you office worker
ergonomic products and or solutions. They may for example suggest a
great chair to help with back problems ( this may be at least
deductable or possibly even medically prescribed) and such a chair
might be a bit different in adjustability than a standard office
chair. The point is they need to see you in your workspace to help
you most effectively with your needs.