Assessments are designed to optimize employee comfort and productivity, and lower the risk of injury. The scope of such evaluations can include tailoring the set-up of existing workplace equipment to suit individual needs, identifying risk factors to avoid future injuries, educating employees on optimal work habits, and making equipment recommendations to enhance productivity and workplace comfort.
OFFICE WORKSTATION ASSESSMENTS :
Two categories and three levels of office workstation assessments are available :
Category 1: Preventive
Level I is for new employees, or employees without significant symptoms, in order to identify risk factors and recommend ergonomic changes such as workstation set-up or keyboard/mousing technique. Individual concerns can be addressed along with a self-assessment checklist and handouts on safety and ergonomic injury prevention. Individual or group assessments are available.
Level II is for employees who may be experiencing discomfort or pain. It typically includes a written report, a list of OSHA risk factors, employee work habit education and interventions, and equipment recommendations. Ideally, it should be performed within one week of an employee’s request and follow-up is available.
Category 2: Post-Injury
Level III is a comprehensive assessment for employees with a Worker’s Compensation Claim. Level III identifies ergonomic issues that are contributing to an injured employee’s specific symptoms or discomfort. It includes a written report with photographs (which can be submitted to a medical provider if needed), and recommendations for ergonomic modifications such as furniture, seating and input devices, and work practices that may be contributing to an employee’s injury. Follow-up is available.
EARLY INTERVENTION ASSESSMENTS
Early intervention assessments are performed at the request of an employee or manager when an employee is experiencing discomfort. Evaluations typically include recommendations to minimize risk factors, improve safe work habits, body mechanics training, and practical solutions such as weight shifting to move an object laterally and avoiding wrist extension with repetitive activities. These assessments can include follow-up.
ON-SITE WALK-THRU ASSESSMENTS
The purpose of a Walk-Thru is to observe the various jobs in a department or work area, identify high-risk tasks and functions, and provide feedback and recommendations. Recommendations may include specific actions employees can take, equipment recommendations and additional training, such as moving items closer prior to lifting, pivoting feet rather than twisting, or keeping wrists in a neutral position during keyboard and mousing.
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