Employees bend and reach to lift chickens from supply conveyor and then reach out and away, sometimes above shoulder height, to place them on a shackle conveyor. Injuries to the shoulder, back, and neck are common due to awkward postures and high repetition. Employees at the beginning of the line often work faster than those near the end of the line because there is always a full supply of birds and all shackle positions are open.

• Minimize forward reaches by moving shackle conveyor towards employee.
• Minimize vertical distance between shackles and belt conveyor to minimize bending to reach down to supply conveyor and elevated reaches to reach up to shackle conveyor.
• Rotate employees up and down hanging line.
• Install height-adjustable stands so employees can properly position themselves.

Standing for a long time reduces blood flow to the legs, forces isolated muscles to work for an extended time, and increases the risk of fatigue and varicose veins.

• Install sit/stand stools, which allow employees to lean and have their weight supported while still remaining in an upright posture.
• Rotate to tasks that do not require prolonged standing. 
• Provide shoe insoles that cushion the feet and spread foot pressure over a larger surface.
• Provide a foot rest in front of employees so they can shift their posture.