Seven Steps to ID MSDs, Other Risks in the Workplace

NORTHAMPTON, MA – Even in lower-risk facilities ergonomic assessments are crucial for environmental health and safety (EHS) because they help identify and mitigate potential musculoskeletal disorders and other health risks associated with the workplace.

According to the AnteaGroup, EHS and sustainability consultants, an ergonomic assessment provides a structured way to identify workplace risk factors before they result in injuries, lost productivity, or increased workers' compensation costs.

Ergonomic assessments are an objective study of how employees work. The assessments help identify the ergonomic risks such as repetitive tasks that can cause strains, improper work area setup, and improper use of tools, which can result in the development of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).

A comprehensive workplace ergonomic assessment evaluates how employees interact with their work environment, equipment, and job tasks. Depending on the role, this may include reviewing workstation design, lifting techniques, reaching distances, computer setup, tool selection, work pace, environmental conditions, and repetitive movements.

The goal is not simply to correct individual discomfort, but to identify systemic improvements that reduce injury risk while improving employee comfort, productivity, and long-term wellbeing.

Whether evaluating an office, laboratory, distribution support area, or another lower-risk environment, conducting regular ergonomic assessments helps organizations prioritize improvements based on data rather than assumptions.

Conducting an ergonomic assessment begins with understanding where risks exist, evaluating how work is performed, and prioritizing improvements that reduce injury risk while supporting employee health and operational performance.

Following these seven steps provides a practical framework for building or strengthening an ergonomics program:

• Review existing data and any past ergonomic assessments
• Establish a standard ergonomic assessment method 
• Get a real-life picture of your facility
• Engage employees and get direct feedback on their workspaces 
• Gather objective data
• Assess data and prioritize risk
• Craft a plan to implement mitigation 

Today's workplaces also look different than they did just a few years ago. Many organizations now support hybrid workforces, flexible workstations, shared office environments, and employees working from multiple locations.

As work environments evolve, ergonomic assessment should also evolve to ensure all employees have safe, comfortable workspaces regardless of where they perform their jobs.

For more, go to https://us.anteagroup.com/.