Enhancing Workplace Productivity: The Importance of Ergonomic Assessments
In Part 1 we looked at the ‘what’ and ‘why’ of ergonomic assessments – today let’s take a high-level look at ‘how’ a thorough assessment is completed.
Key Components of an Ergonomic Assessment
1. Client History and Task Analysis
An assessment will start with an interview to gain an understanding of the employees’ work and injury history and explore the work role and tasks they are required to complete throughout the day. This will also begin the process of considering their individual posture during tasks to identify potential risks and provide recommendations for improvement as the assessment progresses.
2. Education
At Ergo Experts we firmly believe that for a client to implement the advice and recommendations made during the assessment they need to have a reasonable understanding of the human body and specific work factors that may impact their health and well-being. We spend time working through relevant anatomy, physiology, and mechanism of injury in simple-to-understand terms so that at the conclusion of the assessment we can feel confident that the clients will appreciate the reasoning behind any changes made or recommended.
3. Workstation Evaluation
A thorough evaluation of the workstation setup, including desk height, chair ergonomics, monitor position, and keyboard/mouse placement, linking back to the key education points made above. This will include a review of the tools and equipment used by the employee to ensure that they are “fit for purpose”, ergonomically designed, and positioned correctly for safe use (repetitive or sustained).
4. Workflow and Task Design
Analyzing the workflow to identify repetitive tasks or awkward movements that could lead to injuries, and suggesting alternatives.
5. Reporting
A report outlining key observations, measurements and recommendations will be completed and provided to the Employer for review and follow-up. This may include specific guidance regarding suitable equipment, with details on supplier options and pricing.
Steps for Employers to consider to conduct an effective Ergonomic Assessment Program
- Identify the Need: Determine which areas or job roles within the organisation are at higher risk for ergonomic issues.
- Gather Data: Collect information through surveys, direct observation, and employee feedback on the risks based on injuries experienced by staff members.
- Analyse the Data: Look for patterns or common issues that need addressing.
- Implement Changes: Arrange for individual ergonomic assessments, schedule group education/training for increased awareness, implement necessary adjustments to workstations or workflows, or consider whether new or additional equipment is required.
- Monitor and Review: Regularly review the changes to ensure they are effective and make further adjustments as needed.
Investing in workplace ergonomic assessments is not just about compliance or preventing injuries—it’s about fostering a culture of health, safety, and productivity. By prioritising ergonomics, businesses can create a more comfortable, efficient, and engaging work environment, leading to happier employees and better overall performance. In Part 3 of this series we will further explore the benefits of and how to promote an ergonomic assessment program.
Don’t wait for discomfort or injuries to prompt action. Start implementing ergonomic assessments today by contacting Ergo Experts and witness the positive impact on your workplace well-being and productivity. Call 0409 512 434 or email us.
