🪑 What Is Ergonomics All About?

Ergonomics is the science of designing work tasks, tools, and environments to fit the people who use them. In simple terms, it’s about making work comfortable, safe, and efficient — so workers can perform their jobs without unnecessary strain or injury.

In Malaysia, ergonomic risks are recognised under the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994 (OSHA). Employers have a duty to identify and control risks that may lead to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) such as back pain, wrist strain, or fatigue.

🧠 Why Ergonomics Matters

Even in small workplaces, poor ergonomics can lead to:

•  Repetitive strain injuries

•  Fatigue and reduced productivity

•  Increased sick leave and medical costs

•  Long-term disability or compensation claims

Good ergonomics helps to:

•  Improve worker comfort and morale

•  Reduce injury risks and downtime

•  Boost efficiency and job satisfaction

•  Comply with OSHA’s general duty of care

🧩 Common Ergonomic Risks

•  Manual handling of heavy items

•  Prolonged standing or awkward postures

•  Poor workstation setup (e.g. screen height, chair support)

•  Repetitive tasks without breaks

🛠️ What Employers Can Do

•  Conduct basic ergonomic risk screenings

•  Adjust workstations and tools to fit workers

•  Provide training on posture and safe lifting

•  Encourage stretch breaks and movement

•  Document ergonomic controls and improvements

🛠️ Ergonomics KIT