Ergonomics FAQ

1. What is ergonomics?

2. What are the qualifications for ergonomists?

3. What do ergonomists do and how can they help my organization?

4. How do I know when I need help in ergonomics?

5. What is a musculoskeletal disorder? How does it relate to work?

6. What does it cost to address ergonomics?

7. Do you sell ergonomic furniture and equipment?

8. Do you work with small business?

1. What is ergonomics?

HealthWorks uses the following definition:

Ergonomics is the study of human work. It examines the employee’s interaction with tasks, work methods, tools, equipment, and the environment. Ergonomics removes barriers to quality, productivity, and human performance.

In August 2000, the IEA Council (International Ergonomics Association) adopted an official definition of ergonomics, as follows:

“Ergonomics (or human factors) is the scientific discipline concerned with the understanding of interactions among humans and other elements of a system, and the profession that applies theory, principles, data and methods to design in order to optimize human well-being and overall system performance.”

2. What are the qualifications for ergonomists?

An Ergonomist may have a background in kinesiology, physiotherapy, psychology, engineering, medicine, computer science, or occupational therapy. Ergonomists receive specific education and training in ergonomics theory, methods, concepts and principles from a qualified university or educational institution.

To become certified in Canada as an Ergonomist, the individual first applies to be recognized as an Associate Ergonomist (AE) by the Canadian College for the Certification of Professional Ergonomists (CCCPE). With the appropriate amount of relevant professional experience, the individual can apply to have their designation upgraded to Canadian Certified Professional Ergonomist (CCPE). The American equivalent is CPE.

3. What do ergonomists do and how can they help my organization?

Ergonomists contribute to the design and evaluation of tasks, jobs, products, environments and systems in order to make them compatible with the needs, abilities and limitations of people.
Ergonomists work with your organization to assess your needs, plan a viable approach, and conduct appropriate measures to meet your goals. This can result in improved working conditions, reduction in workplace injuries and employee discomfort, and improved productivity.

4. How do I know when I need help in ergonomics?

Repetitive strain injuries, employee discomfort, workplace injuries, chronic pain, absenteeism and turnover often indicate underlying ergonomics problems.

You may notice employees wearing a splint or brace on a wrist, leaning forward and squinting to view a computer screen, building makeshift cushions on work stools, or creating special modifications to equipment or tools.

Proactively addressing health and safety issues by implementing a comprehensive ergonomics program, will increase productivity, reduce lost time claims, and improve work comfort.

5. What is a musculoskeletal disorder? How does it relate to work?

Musculoskeletal disorders (also called MSD’s, RSI’s or MSI’s) include a group of conditions involving nerves, tendons, muscles, and supporting structures. MSD’s can vary in severity from mild periodic symptoms to severe chronic and debilitating conditions. Examples include: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, tendinitis, tension neck syndrome, and low back pain. Symptoms may include pain, numbness, and tingling.

Work-related tasks may contribute to the development of a musculoskeletal disorder over the course of a few weeks to many years. Risk factors such as repetition, force, duration, and awkward posture are identified by Ergonomists. Those suffering from MSI’s may be unable to perform their job tasks, lose time from work, and experience a temporary or permanent disability.
Computer work, tool and equipment usage, driving vehicles, and lifting and carrying may contribute to musculoskeletal disorders. Ergonomists recommend control measures to minimize or eliminate these risk factors.

6. What does it cost to address ergonomics?

The costs vary depending upon the scope of the needs of your organization and at what point you involve an ergonomist.

When ergonomics is proactively considered, early in the process of building, designing, and purchasing, the costs are usually minor. Reactive approaches, when ergonomics is applied to correct existing problems, may be more costly.

Generally, fees and costs range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. Many ergonomics problems can be remedied at a low cost. Our professional ergonomists give companies options to select from to work within their budget.

The benefits of addressing ergonomics issues include: improved productivity, decreased lost time and associated WCB costs, reduced absenteeism, reduced errors, lower turnover, and improved morale.

Indirect costs from ignoring ergonomics-related problems often cost from 1 to 6 times what can
be measured directly. These costs include: recruiting and training replacement employees,
administrative time managing claims and investigating injuries, material damage,
production down-time, etc.

“Not all the recommendations required purchasing additional equipment. HealthWorks offers solutions as simple as using telephone books or existing equipment. When we need to purchase additional equipment, HealthWorks works with our existing suppliers.”
Charlene Tomlinson, Manager of Ancillary Services, Bow Valley College

HealthWorks’ initial consultation is free. We provide quotes for our ergonomics consulting.

7. Do you sell ergonomic furniture and equipment?

No. Because we make furniture and equipment recommendations, we prefer not to put ourselves in a potential conflict of interest.

HealthWorks will help you to determine your needs and recommend products that we have examined, that meet CSA ergonomic guidelines, and that we feel will meet your needs.

We often can make recommendations for products from the suppliers you presently use. Any recommendations we may make for ergonomic furniture and equipment are based on the quality, service, and cost effectiveness of the supplier and their products.

8. Do you work with small business?

We work with a wide range of businesses from large multi-nationals to small businesses, including public and not-for-profit agencies.