legislation

worker being instructed how to remove heavy pan from oven
10 Oct, 23

When does “reinstructing the worker” help?

Some of our clients pass their strain/sprain injury reports to our ergonomists for review, investigation, or other support.  I have to say, every time I see the corrective action listed as “Reinstruct the worker,” I wince quietly. I imagine the supervisor sitting with the worker, who is in pain, and saying, “Next time, make sure […]
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ergonomics under the safety or engineering umbrella
25 Sep, 23

Where does ergonomics belong – Safety or Engineering?

Most of our clients hire us because they need help to reduce sprain/strain injuries. We are typically contacted by the Human Resources department or, more specifically, Health and Safety. This is a natural consequence of the way most organizations see ergonomics: fitting work to people so strain/sprain injuries can be avoided. As we’ve pointed out […]
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18 Sep, 23

What is the maximum weight a worker can lift? (Nationally, Provincially, and Practically)

This is a question that is often asked of ergonomists. Many people believe that the maximum is 23 kg, or 50 lbs. Here are the facts: Nationally (Canada) Nationally, certain regulations apply to federally regulated organizations, such as airlines and banks, as defined by the Canada Occupational Health and Safety Regulations (SOR/86-304), specifically Division III, […]
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15 May, 23

Ergonomics: A Powerful Tool for Inclusive Workplaces

Creating inclusive workplaces that embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is vital for organizational success. Ergonomics, the science of optimizing human performance and well-being in the workplace, can play a significant role in supporting DEI initiatives. This article explores how ergonomists and their assessment tools can enhance inclusivity and help organizations design jobs that accommodate […]
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31 Oct, 22

Visibility

Hallowe’en seems like the perfect time for a discussion about “visibility” and “line of sight”. Masks and other costumes can obstruct a trick-or-treater’s vision; a child may not see approaching people or vehicles, and may trip and fall over obstacles that they cannot see. When you can only see forward, your peripheral vision is impaired; […]
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22 Nov, 21

Does your safety coordinator “do” ergonomics?

It might surprise you to learn that most of our clients have full-time safety coordinators. And yet, when you look at job postings for safety positions, many of them identify “ergonomics” as one of the job responsibilities. Given that strain/sprain injuries account for the majority of incidents and the majority of WSIB costs, you’d think […]
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