Workplace injuries and discomfort can have a significant impact on both employees and a business’s bottom line. Conducting an ergonomics assessment is an effective way to identify and address potential risks before they lead to long-term health issues.
This guide outlines the key steps in performing an ergonomics assessment to improve workplace safety, enhance employee well-being, and boost productivity. This assessment involves a structured review of work conditions, employee interactions with their tools, and methods for reducing discomfort and improving productivity through ergonomics solutions. By following these steps, business owners can create a safer and more efficient work environment while reducing the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).
What Is an Ergonomics Assessment?
An ergonomics assessment, sometimes referred to as an ergonomic risk assessment or occupational assessment, is a systematic evaluation designed to identify and address risks for musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and other health issues that arise from a misalignment between workplace design and employees’ physical capabilities.
These assessments are essential for promoting workplace safety and optimising employee well-being. They involve a detailed analysis of physical stressors such as repetitive motions, awkward postures, and poorly designed workstations, all of which can contribute to chronic discomfort and long-term health issues.
Why Should Business Perform Ergonomics Assessment?
Studies indicate that businesses can see a significant return on investment when implementing ergonomic solutions.
According to a 2019 report from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), ergonomic interventions can lead to a 20-30% increase in productivity while reducing injury-related costs by as much as 60%. Additionally, a case study by Liberty Mutual Insurance found that every dollar invested in ergonomic programs yielded an average of $3 in savings from injury reduction and improved efficiency.
By identifying and addressing ergonomic risks, businesses create environments where employees can thrive physically and mentally, resulting in significant organizational benefits such as:
- Research highlights that ergonomic interventions can significantly lower the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and other workplace injuries, creating safer working conditions.
- Adjusting tools and workstations to better align with employee needs reduces fatigue and boosts morale, leading to noticeable improvements in workflow.
- Organizations that prioritize ergonomic improvements often experience lower absenteeism rates, as employees face fewer health-related disruptions.
- Employees feel more valued in workplaces that invest in their comfort and safety, contributing to higher retention.
- By systematically addressing ergonomic risks, businesses create a healthier, more dynamic environment that benefits employees and the bottom line.
7 Steps for Conducting an Ergonomics Assessment and
Developing and evaluating ergonomic systems in various work environments is a simple process. There is more involved in this than just this.
However, this should remain important as you begin your ergonomic evaluation by analyzing specifics and not getting stuck on irrelevant things. This is the easiest way to perform ergonomic tests.
Step 1: Preparing for an Ergonomics Assessment
Preparing for an ergonomics assessment is a crucial step in identifying and mitigating potential musculoskeletal disorders and other health risks in the workplace.
Before conducting an ergonomics assessment, it is essential to review existing data and any past ergonomics assessments to establish a data-driven benchmark for measuring success in the future. This includes reviewing injury and illness logs, workers’ compensation reports, first aid logs, accident, and near-miss investigation reports, insurance company reports, safety committee meeting minutes, and any worker reports of problems.
Additionally, it is vital to establish a standard ergonomics assessment method to ensure each assessment follows the same set of tools and documentation methods. This may include using workstation analysis, job task analysis, risk assessment tools, and employee surveys.
By preparing for an ergonomics assessment, employers can ensure a comprehensive and effective evaluation of the work environment and identify areas for improvement.
Step 2: Gathering Data
Gathering data is a critical component of an ergonomics assessment. There are two types of data that need to be collected: subjective data and objective data. Employers can gather objective data by observing workers in action through a Gemba walk.
Subjective Data
Subjective data is gathered through employee feedback and surveys. This type of data provides valuable insights into the employees’ perceptions of their work environment and any discomfort or pain they may be experiencing.
Employers can conduct comfort surveys to allow employees to anonymously or openly share how they feel about their working conditions and any issues they’re having.
Additionally, employers can engage employees in the process by asking questions such as:
- What do you do?
- How do you do it?
- How long do you do it?
- Who trained you?
- How do you work?
- Training standards?
- How do you feel about your environment?
Objective Data
Objective data is gathered through observations and measurements of the work environment. This type of data provides a factual representation of the work environment and can be used to identify potential ergonomic risk factors.
Employers can use tools such as workstation analysis, job task analysis, and risk assessment tools to gather objective data. Additionally, employers can conduct a Gemba walk of the facility to get a glimpse of workers in action and take extensive notes and capture photos and video to help remember specific details and generate improvement ideas.
Step 3: Identifying Ergonomics Risk Factors
Identifying ergonomic risk factors is a critical step in an ergonomics assessment. Ergonomic risk factors can include repetitive tasks, improper work area setup, and improper use of tools, which can result in the development of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).
Employers can use the data gathered in steps 1 and 2 to identify potential ergonomic risk factors and prioritize them based on the potential for injury and injury severity.
Some common ergonomic risk factors include:
- Repetitive motions
- Awkward postures
- Heavy lifting
- Poor workstation setup
- Inadequate equipment
By identifying and prioritizing ergonomic risk factors, employers can take data-backed steps to reduce injury and increase comfort in the workplace. This may include implementing good ergonomic practices, providing training on proper lifting techniques, and making adjustments to the work environment to reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders.
Step 4: Conducting an Ergonomics Risk Assessment
Conducting an ergonomic risk assessment is a crucial step in identifying potential hazards in the workplace. This step involves evaluating the work environment, job tasks, and equipment to pinpoint ergonomic risk factors that may lead to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) or other injuries.
To conduct an ergonomic risk assessment, follow these steps:
- Review Existing Data: Start by examining any past ergonomics assessments and injury reports to identify recurring issues and common injuries.
- Use Standardized Tools: Employ standardized risk assessment tools such as the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) or the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) lifting equation to evaluate job tasks and work environments.
- Gather Objective Data: Collect detailed information on job tasks, including task duration, frequency, and intensity. This objective evaluation helps in understanding the physical demands placed on employees.
- Evaluate the Work Environment: Assess factors such as lighting, temperature, and noise levels, which can impact ergonomic risk.
- Identify Risk Factors: Look for ergonomic risk factors like poor posture, repetitive motions, and inadequate equipment. These insights will help in developing targeted mitigation strategies.
By systematically conducting an ergonomic risk assessment, employers can identify and address potential hazards, thereby enhancing occupational safety and reducing the risk of musculoskeletal disorders.
Step 5: Prioritizing and Mitigating Risks
Once ergonomic risk factors have been identified, the next step is to prioritize them for mitigation based on their potential impact on employee health and safety. This involves evaluating the severity and likelihood of each risk factor and addressing them accordingly.
First, begin by evaluating risks using a risk assessment matrix. This matrix allows you to assess each ergonomic risk factor based on two critical criteria: severity and likelihood. Severity refers to the potential harm that could arise from the risk, such as the development of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), while likelihood assesses how frequently the risk may occur, taking into account factors like task repetition and physical demands.
Once you have evaluated the risks, the next step is to rank them. Focus on those with the highest severity and likelihood ratings first, as these pose the greatest threat to employee health and safety. This prioritization helps in addressing the most critical issues promptly.
With the risks ranked, you can now develop a mitigation plan. This plan should be comprehensive and include several key components including:
- Ergonomic Practices: Implement solutions such as adjustable workstations, ergonomic chairs, and tools designed to reduce strain on the body.
- Training: Provide training sessions for employees on proper ergonomic techniques, including how to set up their workstations and safe lifting practices.
- Work Environment Modifications: Adjust workflows and workspaces to minimize awkward postures and repetitive motions. Ensure that materials and equipment are easily accessible to reduce unnecessary stretching and reaching.
By systematically prioritizing and mitigating ergonomic risks, employers can create a safer and more comfortable work environment. This proactive approach not only reduces the likelihood of injuries but also enhances overall employee well-being and productivity.
Step 6: Implementing Mitigation Strategies
Implementing mitigation strategies is a critical step in reducing the risk of musculoskeletal disorders and other injuries in the workplace. This step involves putting into action the plans developed in Step 5 to address ergonomic risk factors.
To implement mitigation strategies, follow these actions:
- Engage Stakeholders: Involve relevant stakeholders, including management, safety committees, and employees, in the implementation process. Their input can provide valuable insights and foster a collaborative approach to ergonomics.
- Allocate Resources: Ensure that adequate resources, including budget, personnel, and time, are allocated for the implementation of ergonomic improvements. This may involve investing in ergonomic equipment, training programs, or workspace modifications.
- Training and Education: Provide training sessions for employees on ergonomic practices and the proper use of equipment. Educating employees about the importance of ergonomics can enhance their engagement and compliance with new practices.
- Modify Work Environments: Implement the identified changes in workstations and environments. This may include adjusting workstation heights, providing ergonomic tools, or redesigning workflows to minimize repetitive motions and awkward postures.
- Monitor and Evaluate: After implementing the strategies, continuously monitor their effectiveness. Collect feedback from employees and assess whether the changes have led to a reduction in ergonomic risks and improvements in comfort and productivity .
- Adjust as Necessary: Be prepared to make adjustments based on the feedback and monitoring results. Ergonomic solutions may need to be refined or modified to better meet the needs of employees and address any unforeseen issues that arise during implementation.
By effectively implementing these mitigation strategies, employers can significantly reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders and other workplace injuries, fostering a healthier and more productive work environment.
Step 7: Maintaining a Safe and Healthy Work Environment
Maintaining a safe, healthy work environment demands ongoing vigilance, open communication, and staff awareness. Regular checks reveal changes or new hazards, and immediate tweaks keep workstations and tasks ergonomic.
Sure, a few scattered cables might seem harmless, but tripping over them isn’t exactly a great way to start Monday morning. Employers who prioritize ergonomic solutions, hazard reporting, and regular training keep everyone happier and healthier. This approach not only prevents musculoskeletal disorders but also boosts productivity and morale.
This style nurtures well-being, lowers the odds of musculoskeletal issues, and cultivates an engaged, energetic workforce.
How Ergo Global Can Help
Ergo Global offers comprehensive ergonomic solutions tailored to your organization’s unique needs. With a global network of over 80 certified ergonomists fluent in multiple languages, we provide personalized assessments both on-site and virtually.
Our proprietary ErgoWOW platform digitizes evaluations, enabling quick self-assessments and streamlined ergonomics integration. By partnering with us, you can enhance employee well-being, boost productivity, and achieve a positive return on investment through effective ergonomic strategies.
