In California, ergonomics is no longer a backburner issue. Earlier this year, the California Legislature adopted an enforceable ergonomics standard that became effective July 3, 1997. Ours is the first of any state or community to initiate a standard to prevent repetitive motion injuries. But you can bet this isn't just another fad coming out of California. Federal OSHA will be watching closely how this standard plays out.
Fortunately for the company I work for, Alpha Meat Packing Co., Inc., in South Gate, Cal., we've been prepared for an ergonomics standard for several years.