Kenworth Truck Co's plant in Renton WA received an Ergonomics in Action award from the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries recently. The award recognizes a number of projects completed at the plant since it was opened 10 years ago.
The state is recognizing Kenworth for applying ergonomics principles to reduce injuries and increase productivity, according to Ken Mettler, L&I Ergonomics Program manager.
Kenworth is being recognized for projects such as equipping assembly areas with “manipulators” that tilt truck cabs forward to enable assembly area workers to install lights and horns. The manipulators help employees easily lift heavy components such as mufflers, exhaust pipes, and air cleaners. The company also installed specialized devices on overhead rails that allow employees to grab components off skids or racks and insert them into trucks. Lifting device grips were adapted to fit the hands of operators.
Engineers designed and placed ergonomically friendly equipment in eight assembly departments. In addition, the company realigned or made more accessible parts racks in a non-assembly department.