Ergonomics is the study of the working environment, from the type of industry to the tools used to complete your required tasks.
Prevention programs are a proactive way to find and fix workplace hazards before workers are injured or become ill. These programs can be effective at reducing injuries, illnesses, and fatalities. Musculoskeletal Disorders, Work Environment and Workplace Ergonomics are all key topics of the prevention picture.
Office Ergonomics
Here are some of our most popular resources for ergonomics in the office. Please see our Office Ergonomics E-Learning for a detailed, 7 module learning experience in office ergonomics. You will need to create a free MyOHCOW account in order to gain access.
The goal of office ergonomics is to setup your office space so that it fits you and the job you are doing. The benefits of having the office space set up correctly are:
- Reduced back and neck pain
- Headaches and eyestrain are less likely to effect you
- Prevention of bursitis and tendonitis – both problems are linked to the repetition of tasks
The main focus areas to set up your office work space are:
- Workstation setup (i.e. how you sit and how long you stay sitting or in a fixed position).
- Task functions (i.e. the movements made, and the repetition of those movements).
- Work environment (i.e. lighting, noise and temperature).
- Tools used (i.e. whether they are set up correctly to meet your requirements).
Online & PDF
Office Ergonomics Reference Guide
As a worker, it is important that you know how to adjust your office workstation to suit your needs.
Tool
Office Ergonomics Calculator
The Calculator was designed to highlight areas which could improve the fit and functionality of your workstation.
PDF & Podcast
Workstation Setup Guide
Those with desk jobs spend a lot of time sitting and using repetitive motions, which can all lead to musculoskeletal injury.
Tutorial
Keyboard Shortcut Tutorial
Using keyboard shortcuts minimizes mouse use, increase keyboard efficiency, and reduce ergonomic risk.
Slide Deck
Economics of Ergonomics
A Slide Deck from RSI Day 2018, Presented by Trevor Schell. A guide on how to avoid costly mistakes.
PDF Booklet
Ergonomics Committee Workbook
A resource guide and workbook for ergonomics committees to optimize effectiveness.
Office Ergonomics Sample Checklist
An MSWord checklist to ensure ergonomic compliability.
Industry
Healthcare
Following are links to resources exclusively to address ergonomic issues for the health care sector.
Booklet
Ergonomics and Dental Work
Researchers have found symptoms of discomfort for dental workers occurred in the body, risking injury.
Slide Deck
Guidelines for the Prevention of Back Injuries in Paramedics
Covers injury statistics, Safe Lifting Program, situation specific scenarios and more.
Booklet
Patient Handling for Healthcare Workers
Nurses and caregivers are at particular high risk for back injury and other ergonomic disorders.
Video
the Minimal Lift Program
Covers patient handling, mechanics of spine, risk factors, the "Five Ps" for safe lifting and transfer, and more.
Construction
Following are our most popular videos addressing ergonomics for construction workers, specifically drivers.
Video
Fork Lift - Seat Adjustments
Covers Seat distance, Steering Wheel, Seat Tension and more.
Video
Forklift Exercises
Covers back exercises, leg exercises, quariceps stretch, calf stretch, shoulder exercises, elvow and wrist exercises and more
Video
Seat Adjustments -
Heavy Equipment
Covers seat distance, lumbar curve, seat height, armrest, wheel position
Video
Ergonomics and Snow Shoveling
Covers exercises, preparation before shoveling, picking the right shovel, proper form when shoveling, etc.
Manufacturing - Automotive
Booklet
Automotive Parts Industry Handbook
For labour and management at medium-size auto parts plants to learn about the participatory ergonomics approach.
Video
Forklift Exercises
Covers back exercises, leg exercises, quariceps stretch, calf stretch, shoulder exercises, elvow and wrist exercises and more
Video
Seat Adjustments -
Heavy Equipment
Covers seat distance, lumbar curve, seat height, armrest, wheel position
Video
Fork Lift - Seat Adjustments
Covers Seat distance, Steering Wheel, Seat Tension and more.
Education
Webinar
Educators’ Experiences During the Pandemic
A presentation made as part of the April 2022 OCC-COVID Webinar Series
Generic
Info Sheet
Psychosocial Risk Factors and MSDs
Non-physical aspects of the workplace can contribute to MSDs.
Info Sheet
Ergonomics of Fall Yard/ Garden Chores: Preparation for Winter
Many yardwork chores may lead to the development of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) if done incorrectly.
Info Sheet
Ergonomics and Sleep
How you sleep and factors like mattress quality can affect your health and sometimes result in musculoskeletal disorders.
Info Sheet
Ergonomics and Winter Chores
Winter chores such as removing snow from steps and driveways, and other tasks, may lead to the development of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).
