Ergonomic Risk Factor Identification Checklist
Use this standardized checklist to identify and document ergonomic risk factors (force, repetition, posture, contact stress, vibration, and temperature) for any task or workstation. The goal is to reduce musculoskeletal injuries through systematic observation and data collection.
To provide a consistent, repeatable method for identifying ergonomic risk factors across all workstations, tasks, and job roles. This checklist enables safety coordinators to detect early warning signs of musculoskeletal injury (MSI) and to prioritize controls using objective, documented evidence.
This SOP covers manual material handling, assembly lines, packaging stations, machine operation, and any task involving prolonged sitting/standing, repetitive motion, or use of hand tools. It applies to all production, maintenance, and warehouse roles within industrial operations.
- Observe from a safe distance; never interfere with the worker’s movement or reach. Stand outside the operator’s work zone to avoid distraction or contact with moving machinery.
- Wear required site PPE (hard hat, safety glasses, steel‑toed boots, high‑vis vest) while conducting observations in production areas.
- If you observe an immediate risk of injury (e.g., unstable load, pinch point), stop the task and report it to the supervisor before continuing the assessment.
- Do not ask workers to perform tasks faster or in an unsafe manner for the purpose of observation. Document only existing conditions.
- ERFIC (Ergonomic Risk Factor Identification Checklist) – printed or digital form
- Camera or smartphone for photo/video documentation
- Tape measure (metric)
- Force gauge (optional – for measuring push/pull forces)
- Stopwatch or timer for cycle‑time recording
- Pen/pencil and clipboard (if using paper form)
- Work surface height gauge (optional)