Ergonomics Assessment Request

Ergonomics is the engineering science concerned with the physical and psychological relationship between machines and people who use them.

Ergonomics is matching the job to the worker and product to the user. Ergonomics and human factors are often used interchangeably in workplaces. Both describe the interaction between the worker and the job demands. The difference between them is ergonomics focuses on how work affects workers, and human factors emphasizes designs that reduce the potential for human error.

Ergonomic hazards refer to workplace conditions that pose the risk of injury to the musculoskeletal system of the worker.

Examples of musculoskeletal injuries include:

• tennis elbow (an inflammation of a tendon in the elbow)
• carpal tunnel syndrome (a condition affecting the hand and wrist)

Ergonomic hazards include:

• repetitive and forceful movements
• vibration
• temperature extremes
• awkward postures that arise from improper work methods and improperly designed workstations, tools, and equipment

Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSIs) and other muscloskeletal injuries are common ergonomics hazards when they are not recognized and controlled.

For an Ergonomic Assessment of your workstation and/or task, please complete the Ergonomic Assessment form.