Office of Risk & Safety HomeOffice Ergonomic Assessments
Ergonomic Assessments:
Queen’s has partnered with a third-party provider, Public Services Health and Safety Association (PSHSA), a fully qualified ergonomic assessor, to conduct standard office ergonomic assessments at Queen’s University. Each assessment includes a comprehensive review of all workstation components (such as computer, task chair, desk, and keyboard), analysis of relevant data, and the preparation of a basic written report that outlines findings and provides recommendations to improve employee comfort, safety, and productivity. The primary goals are to accurately identify ergonomic risk factors and suggest appropriate task modifications.
Office assessments that require more comprehensive ergonomic evaluations (e.g., for return-to-work or accommodation purposes) will be documented and scheduled separately, with a separate quote to be provided by the service provider. Assessment scheduling is to be determined.
Ergonomic Assessments are available to all Queen’s university employees at a cost of $300.00 plus HST per standard office assessment. To request an ergonomic assessment, complete the request form.
Please follow the steps below for requesting an ergonomic assessment:
- Step 1: Complete the
- Step 2: Employee who requires the ergonomic assessment must complete the
- Step 3: EHS will schedule the ergonomic assessment and will notify the employee.
Workplace pains and strains are primarily known as musculoskeletal disorders (MSD). They are also referred to as repetitive strain injuries (RSIS); cumulative trauma disorders (CTDS) or repetitive motion injuries (RMIS).
These types of injuries affect muscles, tendons, ligaments and nerves. MSDs develop as a result of the effect of repetitive, forceful or awkward movements on bones, joints, ligaments or other soft tissues. The symptoms such as discomfort, pain, numbness, tingling, weakness or restricted movements can result. There is a strong link between exposure to work related risk factors for MSDs and the development of these disorders.
However, these injuries can be prevented. Ergonomics applies scientific theory, principle and methods to explore the relationship between the worker, job tasks and the workplace. Ergonomic information can be applied to help design appropriate physical and cognitive working environments.
This section of the website has been developed to assist Faculty, Staff and Students to work safely and efficiently. Use the information provided to assess and modify your work area to help improve the safety, comfort and efficiency.
Employees are also invited to request an ergonomic assessment through the Queen’s Ergonomic Consulting Program.
- (PSHSA) Musculoskeletal Disorders/Ergonomics
- (WSIB) Musculoskeletal Disorders/Ergonomics
- (MOL) Musculoskeletal Disorders/Ergonomics
- (CCOHS)
- Workstation Stretches (PDF, 222 KB)
- Office Ergonomic Basics (PDF, 351 KB)