An ergonomics consultant’s main job is to make your workspace fit you better.
They look at how people move and work throughout the day. Using their expert knowledge of the human body, they find ways to adjust the work environment to be safer, more comfortable, and more productive.
The Role of an Ergonomics Consultant
Alt text: An ergonomics consultant in a manufacturing plant discussing workflow improvements with a team to prevent injuries.
Caption: ergonomics consultants assess work environments to identify hazards and recommend solutions for a healthier workplace.
An ergonomics consultant is a professional who applies ergonomic principles to assess and improve work environments. They collaborate with businesses to identify hazards, analyze workflows, and recommend solutions that promote a healthier, more efficient workplace. Their work often prevents injuries like musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and boosts employee satisfaction.
Daily Tasks and Responsibilities
On any given day, an ergonomics consultant’s tasks can include:
- Visiting workplaces to find ergonomic risks, like tasks that require awkward postures or repetitive movements.
- Observing employees as they work to see how they interact with their tools and equipment.
- Analyzing their findings to identify the biggest opportunities for improvement.
- Recommending practical solutions, such as suggesting adjustable furniture, better lighting, or redesigned tools.
- Training employees on safer work habits, like proper lifting techniques or how to set up their workstations correctly.
- Working with designers and engineers to help build ergonomic principles into new products or spaces from the beginning.
- Staying up-to-date on the latest ergonomics research to provide the best possible solutions.
Tools and Techniques
Consultants often use specialized tools like the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) to evaluate biomechanical and postural risks. This screening tool focuses on the neck, trunk, and upper limbs, helping identify changes needed in equipment or processes to mitigate future risks.
Why Ergonomics Consultants Are Important
Hiring an ergonomics consultant can yield significant benefits for businesses across various industries, each with unique needs:
| Industry | Common Applications |
| Office | Designing workstations to reduce repetitive strain injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome. |
| Manufacturing | Assessing assembly lines to minimize physical strain and prevent MSDs. |
| Healthcare | Providing ergonomic tools for medical staff to reduce fatigue and injury. |
| Transportation | Designing vehicle interiors for driver comfort and safety. |
| Technology | Creating user-friendly interfaces to reduce physical and cognitive strain. |
Bringing in an ergonomics consultant leads to clear and measurable benefits. Companies that invest in ergonomics often see significant advantages, such as:
- By directly addressing ergonomic risks, consultants help reduce musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), which are among the most common workplace injuries.
- When team members are comfortable, they’re naturally more focused and efficient because they aren’t distracted by fatigue or pain.
- Preventing injuries leads to fewer workers’ compensation claims, lower healthcare costs, and less productivity lost to sick days.
- Investing in a safer, more comfortable workspace shows employees they are valued, which boosts job satisfaction and contributes to a positive company culture.
For instance, one manufacturing company that made ergonomic changes saw a 30% drop in injuries related to muscles and joints, and their productivity went up by 15% in just the first year. In a similar way, an office that had ergonomic assessments done noticed fewer complaints about back pain and eye strain, which made their employees feel much better about coming to work.
Becoming an ergonomics consultant
To become an ergonomics consultant, a strong educational foundation is typically required. Common degrees include:
- Kinesiology
- Physiology
- Biology
- Psychology
- Industrial engineering
Many consultants pursue certifications like the Certified Professional Ergonomist (CPE) from the Board of Certification in Professional Ergonomics (BCPE). Practical experience in fields like occupational therapy or safety management is also valuable, providing real-world insights into workplace challenges.
Career Outlook and Salary
The demand for ergonomics consultants is expected to grow as businesses increasingly prioritize workplace safety and efficiency. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of health and safety specialists, which includes ergonomists, is projected to grow by 4% from 2019 to 2029, driven by a focus on reducing workers’ compensation costs, particularly with an aging workforce.
Salaries for ergonomics consultants vary based on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start around $50,000 annually, while experienced consultants can earn upwards of $150,000 per year, particularly in high-demand sectors like manufacturing or healthcare.
Is an Ergonomics Consultant Right for Your Needs?
Becoming an ergonomics consultant is a rewarding career where you can help companies create safer, more productive workplaces. To succeed, you need a strong foundation of expert knowledge and practical skills.
Ergo Global’s Ergonomics Training programs are designed to provide just that. We give you the in-depth skills needed to confidently assess work environments and build your future as a professional consultant.
Ready to take the first step?
Talk to us to learn more about the training programs at Ergo Global today.
