Global Ergonomics is Core Business at GE

We provide customised ergonomics support and training to GE sites world-wide.

From jet engines to power generation, GE (General Electric) employees worldwide are renowned for turning imaginative ideas into products and services to help solve some of the world’s toughest problems.

GE recognises that its workforce is the key to its success and has developed a global ergonomics programme to:

• protect its workforce
• create a safe and productive environment
• ensure the optimum conditions for innovation.

System Concepts played a key role in implementing the programme, providing training and support to GE sites across the UK, Europe and Asia.

The process

The ergonomics initiative is a key element of Global Star, a Health and Safety Excellence Recognition Programme.  The programme incorporates industrial, manufacturing and office ergonomics and is implemented at every business worldwide, led by site specific co-ordinators.
 
The ergonomics team first identifies high-risk areas using the Ergonomics Risk Factor Identification form, accident/incident reports and employee feedback.
 
A standardised process is then used to ensure effective implementation. Since early 2008 GE has used the DMAIC process (Define, Measure, Analyse, Improve, Control), already familiar to engineers working with Six Sigma principles.  All the methodology is supplied online via GE’s intranet site to allow global access to every operation.

The steps involved in the process are:
1.  Define.  Define and understand the scope of the problem.

2.  Measure.  Determine what measurements are relevant, which Ergonomic Job Analysis Tools to use and then progress to collecting the required data.

3.  Analyse.  Use the collected data to understand the current situation and establish what the most significant contributing factors are (using the appropriate Ergonomic Job Analysis Tools),

4.  Improve. Develop potential solutions focussing on the most critical factors and select and finally pilot the best solution.

5.  Control.  Validate and then implement the solution consistently.  Train employees and ensure 100% usage.

Training

System Concepts delivered GE’s corporate training courses “Ergonomics Principles and Applications” and “Office Ergonomics” in English, French and German to  help the internal teams identify, assess and solve ergonomics problems.  Our experienced trainers ensure that all delegates are both confident and competent in using the ergonomics tools and in applying GE’s processes.

Customised ergonomics training courses, workshops and ‘Quick Hit’ mentoring provided further support to help sites achieve Global Star.   

Typical support at GE Aircraft Engine Services

At this business in Wales we:

• Delivered a customised two-day GE Ergonomics Principles training course.
• Visited the site for two days and identified areas needing additional support.
• Helped the team review its approach to identifying high-risk tasks, and carrying out an ergonomics assessment.
• Guided the team through the completion of the appropriate forms.
• Identified further training requirements to help the team attain Global Star.

What does the client say?

Implementation of world-class and sustainable health and safety management systems is a crucial part of GE’s global strategy and a requirement of all our operations.  System Concepts has a strong track record of working with other leading international organisations and has become a key part of our team, providing outstanding ergonomics support and expertise to assist GE companies in attaining key corporate goals in health and safety.

Christian Johnson, Manager of Ergonomics and Safety Programs at GE