Ergonomics

Ergonomics is the science of adapting tools, workstations, equipment and job practices to help reduce the risk of injury. It involves matching the work (job) to the worker (individual).

Workstation set up, safe lifting techniques, proper posture, appropriate seating position and adaptive equipment are a few examples of ergonomics in the workplace.

Ergonomic assessments should be completed under these circumstances:

• upon starting with a new workstation/workflow
• when there are modifications or changes to ongoing positions or tasks at current workstation/workflow
• when there are changes in health status that require workstation/workflow modifications

The assessment process consists of five activities:

1. Complete the Ergonomics Awareness Training.
2. Review this tip sheet and follow the Ergo Insights to adjust your chair.
3. Submit your completed Workstation Self Assessment Checklist and your supervisor will receive an email about your submission. Your supervisor will have the option to either refer you to the HSE team for additional support or download and save your submitted form if additional ergonomic support is not required.
4. If assistance is required with adjustments or equipment, a member of the HSE team will reach out to you with a link to schedule a follow up ergonomic appointment.
   
5. If further expertise is required, HSE will request an ergonomic assessment from a third-party ergonomist.

HSE workstation ergonomic assessments and/or a third-party ergonomic assessment may include recommendations for furniture (e.g., chair, desk, cabinet), additional equipment (e.g., keyboard, mouse) or workflow modifications. The cost for recommended ergonomic furniture is covered by the MacEwan Asset Replacement Coordination (ARC) Fund, and the cost for additional equipment is at the discretion of departmental funds.

You can sign out equipment from the MacEwan University Library on a trial basis. Use your MacEwan ID/Library card to sign out the equipment. Available items are listed here: HSE Equipment available for TRIAL from MacEwan Library.