title: Net-cost model for workplace interventions.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Few methods exist for comprehensively examining the costs and benefits of ergonomic interventions applicable to a variety of economic sectors and settings.
  
  
  METHODS
  An instrument for data collection and data analysis at the facility level is presented. In this net-cost model intervention costs are defined by equipment and labor costs for the interventions as well as the avoided costs of lost work time, medical care, and productivity improvements.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Net-cost estimates for three case studies show that ergonomic interventions applied appropriately can result in substantial cost savings for the companies.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  It would be prudent to incorporate a protocol for collecting cost and effectiveness data in the standard operating procedures of companies introducing ergonomic interventions. Validation of the net-cost model through prospective studies is necessary.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  This model may be used to determine the net-cost of implemented or proposed ergonomic interventions in industrial facilities.
authors.affiliation: Department of Economics, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Falmouth Hall 302D, One University Avenue, Lowell, MA 01854, United States. Supriya_Lahiri@uml.edu
authors.forename: Supriya
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Lahiri
authors.forename: Judith
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Gold
authors.forename: Charles
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Levenstein
mesh_terms: D006804:Ergonomics / Q000191:economics*; D006801:Humans; D017116:Low Back Pain / Q000191:economics / Q000517:prevention & control*; D018803:Models, Economic; D009786:Occupational Health Services / Q000191:economics*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D017132:Workplace