Ergonomics

The MacEwan University Ergonomics Program actively promotes practices to ensure the health and safety of all employees, and provides training and guidance for preventing, reporting, and responding to musculoskeletal injuries (MSIs).

What is ergonomics? 

Ergonomics is the science of adapting tools, workstations, equipment, and job practices to help reduce the risk of injury. It involves matching the work (job) to the worker (individual).

Workstation set up, safe lifting techniques, proper posture, appropriate seating position, and adaptive equipment are only a few of the many examples of ergonomics in the workplace.

When should I complete an ergonomic assessment?

1. Upon starting with a new workstation/workflow 

2. If there are any modifications or changes to ongoing positions or tasks at the current workstation/workflow

3. If there is a change in your health status that requires workstation/workflow modifications

What is the ergonomic assessment process? 

1. Review this guide and follow the Ergo Insights to adjust your chair.

2. Complete the Workstation Self Assessment Checklist and any actions required. This will help you set up your workstation correctly according to your needs and activities. It can also be used to assess other workstations that you may be using. NOTE: The Ergonomic assessment course has not yet been completed for mêskanâs . Please disregard this step when completing the Workstation Self-Assessment Checklist. 

3. Send a digital copy of the completed Workstation Self Assessment Checklist to your supervisor for review. The supervisor will review and sign the assessment form, and provide required ergonomic equipment if available within the department (e.g., mouse, keyboard, footrest, mouse pad, document holder). 

4. If assistance is required with adjustments or equipment, schedule a HSE Workstation Ergonomic Assessment by having your supervisor send the completed Workstation Self-Assessment Checklist to Health, Safety & Environment (HSE) and selecting an appointment at the following link*. If you have urgent ergonomic concerns contact HSE@macewan.ca. 

5. If further expertise is required, HSE will request Ergonomic Assessment from a 3rd party ergonomist.

Who covers the cost? 

HSE Workstation Ergonomic Assessments and/or a 3rd party Ergonomic Assessment may include recommendations for furniture (chairs/desks/cabinets), additional equipment (keyboard, mouse, etc.), or workflow modifications. Note that the cost for recommended ergonomic furniture is covered by the MacEwan Asset Replacement Coordination (ARC) Fund and the cost for additional equipment is at the discretion of Departmental funds. 

Want to try the recommended ergonomic equipment before purchasing? 

Select equipment is available to trial from the MacEwan University Library. For a complete list of items refer to the HSE Equipment available for TRIAL from MacEwan Library document. Please ensure you have your MacEwan ID/Library Card.