How to Perform an Ergonomic Assessment in the Workplace

What is an Ergonomic Workplace Assessment?

An ergonomic workplace assessment, or ergonomic risk assessment, is a thorough review of the work environment and employee interactions within that environment. It functions to identify potential risks that could lead to injuries or musculoskeletal disorders. The goal is to pinpoint these risks and devise practical solutions to mitigate them, creating a safer and more comfortable workplace for everyone.

Step-by-Step Guide to Conducting an Ergonomic Assessment

1. Review Existing Workplace Data

Start your ergonomic assessment by gathering and reviewing existing data such as workers’ compensation reports, workplace injury logs, and first aid records. This historical data helps identify patterns and common risk areas within your organisation. Understanding these patterns is crucial for focusing your ergonomic workplace assessment efforts more effectively.

2. Select Appropriate Assessment Tools

Choose the right tools to measure ergonomic risks specific to your workplace. Tools like the WISHA Caution Zone Checklist, the PILE Lifting Equation, and the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) are invaluable in objectively assessing risk factors. Select tools that align with specific tasks and environments in your facility to ensure accurate data collection.

3. Conduct Subjective Evaluations

Before using any tools, walk through the workplace to observe the environment and engage with employees directly. This hands-on approach provides insights into potential ergonomic issues that may not be apparent from data alone. Discuss with employees about their daily routines, any discomfort they experience, and their suggestions for improvements. This step helps identify immediate risk factors and promotes employee involvement in the ergonomic process.

4. Collect Objective Data

With insights from your subjective ergonomic workplace assessment, use the selected tools to assess ergonomic risks quantitatively. Focus on areas and tasks identified as high risk from your initial data review and employee feedback. Measure factors such as workstation setup, repetitive motion frequencies, and the physical demands of specific tasks.

5. Analyse Data and Prioritise Risks

Combine the data from your reviews, subjective evaluations, and objective measurements to develop a comprehensive understanding of ergonomic risks in your workplace. Analyse this data to prioritise risks based on the severity and frequency of exposure. This analysis should guide your strategy for implementing ergonomic improvements.

Setting Goals for Ergonomic Improvements

Developing clear and measurable goals is essential for any successful ergonomic workplace assessment. For healthcare facilities, these might include reducing the incidence of musculoskeletal disorders among staff, decreasing the number of injury-related workdays lost, or eliminating manual patient transfers. Setting these targets helps focus efforts and evaluate the effectiveness of ergonomic interventions over time.

Ergonomic Workplace Assessments & Organisational Excellence

Sustainable ergonomic workplace assessments in patient care settings enhance employee and patient satisfaction and position the facility as a leader in healthcare quality and employee safety. By becoming an employer of choice, facilities can improve staff recruitment, retention, and overall satisfaction, all while adhering to regulatory compliance and enhancing the overall workplace environment.

Implementing Changes for a Healthier Workplace

Once the assessment is complete, develop a plan to address the identified ergonomic risks. Consider immediate solutions for high-risk issues and long-term strategies for ongoing improvement. This might include adjusting workstation layouts, providing ergonomic furniture, or offering training on safe work practices.

By integrating ergonomics deeply into the fabric of a work environment, employers can create a safer, more productive, and more satisfying environment for employees and employers. Perceptive Health is committed to guiding facilities through the intricate process of workplace ergonomic assessments and program implementation, ensuring all people experience the profound benefits of a well-designed ergonomic environment.

Ergonomic Workplace Assessments with the Experts

Perceptive Health is committed to enhancing workplace safety and employee wellbeing through targeted workplace ergonomic assessments or safe health services via telehealth. Our approach not only identifies risks but also provides tailored solutions that fit the unique needs of each client.

By choosing Perceptive Health, you benefit from our expertise in creating healthier work environments that foster productivity and employee satisfaction.