Ergonomics is concerned with the relationship between people, the tasks they undertake, the equipment they use and the environments in which they work.  It puts people first, taking account of the human body, its movements, its capabilities and limitations.

Applying good ergonomic principles in the workplace reduces the potential for injury and ill health such as aches and pains of the wrists, shoulders and back, and improves performance and productivity.

Legislation

Part 2, Chapter 2 of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations, 2007, is titled “Use of Work Equipment”.  One of the employer’s duties, Regulation 28(g), states:

“the working posture and position of employees while using work equipment, and any ergonomic requirements, are taken into account having regard to the safety and health of the employees”

Research has shown that failure to address ergonomics in the working arrangements can often lead to employees becoming physically fatigued and developing minor aches and pains in joints and limbs, which could progress into more serious musculo-skeletal problems.

What is an Ergonomic Risk Assessment?

The Nifast approach to this type of assessment involves:

   – The assessor reviewing the current work design and organisational factors in your workplace.

   – The assessor identifying and recording any ergonomic issues.

   – Requirements for additional or alternative equipment will be determined and “on-the-spot” recommendations will be made where appropriate, with the aim of achieving the optimum layout for the work location (e.g. a computer workstation, or the machine set-up in a production floor).

   – An environmental assessment of lighting, noise, temperature and humidity levels.

   – Nifast will provide a final report, which will include a detailed assessment of the work area and key recommendations.

   – Where appropriate, photographs will be included in the report to illustrate specific hazards.

How Nifast consultancy can help with Ergonomic Risk Assessments?

Nifast’s professional safety consultants can advise you on your Ergonomic Risk Assessment needs.

Our consultants can act as ‘competent persons’, and work with your staff to ensure that there is a good awareness of the hazards and controls associated with Ergonomics in your organisation.  We will ensure that any recommendations are practical and appropriate to the nature of your business.

Question: Do you need an Ergonomic Risk Assessment undertaken in your workplace?

   – Have you ever conducted a risk assessment of your workstations?

   – Are you in line with minimum legislative requirements in this area?

   – Are any of your employees working in poor, uncomfortable postures?

   – Would you like Ergonomic Risk Assessments done by a competent person?