Ergonomic Risk Assessment
An ergonomic risk assessment is a structured evaluation of work tasks, tools, workstations, and work organization to identify factors causing musculoskeletal injury (MSI) and determine risk severity. Under WorkSafeBC, employers must identify MSI risk factors, assess the risk, and control it, with annual review of control effectiveness. It focuses on physical risk factors like force, repetition, awkward postures, and work rate.
On a manufacturing shop floor, a supervisor or competent assessor identifies jobs with MSI risk, such as repetitive assembly, lifting, packing, machine tending, or pushing/pulling carts. The assessor observes tasks under normal production conditions, evaluating exposure to risk factors like motion frequency, force required, posture duration, and workstation height or reach. They document risk degree and recommend controls like mechanical assists, fixture redesign, lift tables, job rotation, or recovery breaks. If permanent controls are delayed, interim controls must be implemented immediately. Workers assigned tasks requiring special MSI controls must be trained. The assessment is reviewed annually for effectiveness.
Is ergonomic risk assessment the same as a workstation setup review?
No. A workstation setup review may be one input, but a WorkSafeBC ergonomic risk assessment must also examine force, repetition, duration, posture, local contact stress, layout, load characteristics, environment, and work organization.
What is the regulatory purpose of the assessment under WorkSafeBC?
The purpose of the ergonomics MSI requirements is to eliminate or, if that is not practicable, minimize the risk of musculoskeletal injury.
What evidence is expected from a credible assessment?
Observation of the actual task, worker consultation, identification of exposure factors, risk characterization, and documented control measures with follow-up review.