ERGONOMICS

The purpose of the regulatory ergonomics requirements is to eliminate, or if that is not possible, minimize, the risk of musculoskeletal injuries (MSI)

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· DEFINITION OF MUSCULOSKELETAL INJURY

· RISK IDENTIFICATION AND ASSESSMENT

· TRAINING

· CONSULTATION WITH THE JOINT HEALTH AND SAFETY COMMITTEE

· CHAIRS

· STANDING

· LIFTING

DEFINITION OF MUSCULOSKELETAL INJURY

Musculoskeletal injury or MSI means an injury or disorder of the muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, nerves, blood vessels or related soft tissue that may be caused or aggravated by work. (Occupational Health and Safety Regulation 1996, 81)

RISK IDENTIFICATION AND ASSESSMENT

The employer must regularly review activities in the workplace that may cause or aggravate MSI. Where risk is identified, the worker must be informed of the risk, and signs and symptoms of MSI.

Protection must be provided for each worker at risk including providing equipment designed to reduce the harmful effects of a work activity, implementing appropriate work practices, and implementing work schedules that incorporate rest and recovery periods.

Workers with symptoms of a MSI must be advised to consult a physician, work activities must be reviewed to find the cause, and corrective action implemented. (Occupational Health and Safety Regulation 1996, 81)

TRAINING

A worker who is exposed to the risk of MSI must be trained in safe work practices. (Occupational Health and Safety Regulation 1996, 81)

CONSULTATION WITH THE JOINT HEALTH AND SAFETY COMMITTEE

Both workers and the JHSC must be consulted when reviewing activities that may cause or aggravate MSI. (Occupational Health and Safety Regulation 1996, 81)

CHAIRS

When workers have the opportunity to sit, suitable seating must be provided. If most work is done seated, provide a seat properly designed, and footrest if needed. (Occupational Health and Safety Regulation 1996, 80)

STANDING

If workers stand for long periods of time, anti-fatigue matting, footrests, and other devices must be provided. (Occupational Health and Safety Regulation 1996, 79)

LIFTING

Ensure workers receive training in safe lifting methods. (Occupational Health and Safety Regulation 1996, 78)

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