Occupational Health & Safety Program
SECTION 13
ERGONOMICS / JOB ANALYSIS
PAGE
13.1 Introduction 1-2
13.2 Steps in the Prevention of MSI 3
13.3 Risk Identification 4 13.4 Risk Assessment 5 13.5 Risk Control 6 13.6 Training 7 13.7 Evaluation 8 13.8 Investigating an MSI
13.9 Ergonomic Program Evaluation Forms 9
13.10 Risk Assessments
No. of Pages
Identifying MSI Factors in the Workplace 7
Assessment Instructions 2
Task Analysis 1
Risk Assessment Work Sheets 10
13.11Musculoskeletal Injury Prevention Program Evaluation Report
Introduction
The MSIP Program Evaluation Process
Characteristics of an Effective Injury Prevention Program. Six Basic Steps in the Review Process
Terms of Reference
Information Gathering Methods and Guidelines - Documentation
- Questionnaires - Interviews - Inspections
Completing and Scoring the Evaluation. Corrective Action Plan.
Follow-up Sample Forms
MSIP Program Evaluation Documentation Checklist Program Evaluation Comments.
MSIP Program Recommendations. Inspection Comments.
MSIP Program Evaluation Score Sheet. Musculoskeletal Injury Prevention Program Evaluation Questionnaire.
13.12 - THE MSIP PROGRAM EVALUATION REPORT WORKBOOK
Terms of Reference Record.
Program Evaluation Score (optional). MSIP Program Evaluation/Comments.
Element 1 - Musculoskeletal Injury Prevention (MSIP) Policy Element 2 - Written Practical Safe Work Procedures
Element 3 - Training of Workers and Supervisors Element 4 - Supervision of Workers
Element 5 - Regular Inspection and Monitoring
Element 6 - Hazardous Materials and Substances (Not Applicable) Element 7 - Monitoring of Workplace Exposures (Not Applicable) Element 8 - Medical Examination and Health Monitoring (Not Applicable)
Element 9 - First Aid Services and Equipment Element 10 - Investigation of Accidents and Diseases
Element 11 - Joint Occupational Safety and Health Committee Element 12 - Records and Statistics
Element 13 - MSIP Program Review and Evaluation Inspection Comments
No. of Pages
APPENDIX 1 2
MSIP Program Evaluation Documentation Checklist
APPENDIX 2 1
MSIP Program Evaluation Comments
APPENDIX 3 1
MSIP Program Recommendations
APPENDIX 4 7
MSIP Program Evaluation Questionnaire
APPENDIX 5 1
MSIP Program Inspection Comments
APPENDIX 6 2
MSIP Program Worker Questionnaire
APPENDIX 7 2
MSIP Program Investigation Checklist
APPENDIX 8 2
Ergonomic Risk Assessments And Control Options
APPENDIX 9 1
MSIP Program Evaluation Score Sheet
APPENDIX 10 2
General Ergonomic Analysis Checklist
APPENDIX 11 1
Computer Work Station Checklist
APPENDIX 12 1
Hand Tool Analysis Checklist
APPENDIX 13 1
Keyboard and Mouse System Evaluation Form
APPENDIX 14 1
Ergonomic Seating Evaluation Form
APPENDIX 15 4
RULA Employee Assessment Worksheet
APPENDIX 16 4
Task Hazard Analysis Worksheet Job Task Analysis Type #1
ERGONOMICS / JOB ANALYSIS
13.1 INTRODUCTION
Some tasks performed at School District No. 53 – such as lifting, reaching, and repeating the same movements – can strain our bodies. In some situations, these tasks can result in an injury to the muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, blood vessels, and joints of the neck, shoulders, arms, wrists, legs and back. This type of injury is called a musculoskeletal injury, or MSI.
MSI is a common type of injury in all our schools. MSI claims resulting from overexertion and repetitive motion accidents account for about one-third of claims accepted by WCB in British Columbia. In some districts this proportion is much higher.
The Occupational Health and Safety Regulation [4.49(a) to (e)] lists specific requirements to help us prevent MSI. The section provides guidance to help Schools and Operations, Joint Health & Safety committees, and management health and safety representatives implement an effective strategy to prevent MSI in the School District. This section includes information that will help to:
Identify factors that place workers at risk for MSI
Understand the steps in preventing MSI
Understand how control measures can reduce the risk of MSI
Investigate injuries and signs or symptoms of MSI Risk Factors
The factors that contribute to the risk of MSI are called risk factors. A risk factor is something that may cause or contribute to an injury. Two or more risk factors can be present at one time, increasing the risk of injury.
The Occupational Health and Safety Regulation requires management to consider a number of factors when identifying and assessing the risk of MSI. The primary risk factors for MSI are the physical demands of a task, including: force, repetition, work posture, and local contact stress.
For a description of these risk factors, along with illustrations and examples, see the WCB publication
Understanding the Risks of Musculoskeletal Injury (MSI): An Educational Guide for Workers on Sprains, Strains, and Other MSIs. The publication also looks at factors that influence the physical demands, such
as layout of the workplace and the organization of work tasks. In addition, this booklet provides information on the signs and symptoms of MSI and the potential health effects of these injuries. The booklet is available online.
The mere presence of MSI risk factors may not in itself result in an injury. It depends on the extent of exposure-for example, how great the force is and how long the worker is exposed to the risk.
Developing an MSI can also depend on individual characteristics that vary from worker to worker (such as height, gender, and the body’s ability to deal with the risk factors). In addition, activities outside the workplace can result in exposure to the risk factors for MSI.
13.2 STEPS IN THE MSI PREVENTION PROCESS
Step 1 CONSULTATION
Consult with joint health and safety committee or worker health and safety representative during each step in the MSI prevention process below.
Step 2
EDUCATION
Educate workers about risk factors, signs and symptoms of injury and potential health effects.
Step 3
RISK IDENTIFICATION
Identify jobs with a risk of MSI. Identify risk factors on those jobs.
Step 4
RISK ASSESSMENT
Assess identified risk factors to determine the degree of risk to workers. Consult with affected workers and a representative sample of other workers who perform the same tasks.
Step 5 RISK CONTROL
Implement control measures, where required, to eliminate or minimize the risk to workers.
Step 6 TRAINING
Train workers in the use of control measures.
Step 7 EVALUATION
Evaluate control measures to determine their effectiveness to eliminate or minimize the risk of MSI. Where the risk has not been effectively controlled, re-examine the task.
13.3 RISK
IDENTIFICATION
School District No. 53 is required to identify factors in the workplace that may expose workers to a risk of MSI. This doesn’t mean that you have to identify risk factors for every job at your workplace, just for jobs
in which there is reasonable expectation of a risk of MSI. Risk identification should be conducted by people who understand both the work process and the risk factors and who have some education and training in the principles of risk assessment.
Since it is not practical to identify MSI risk factors associated with all jobs at one time, a reasonable approach is to prepare a list of jobs in order of decreasing risk and establish a plan in order of priority. To determine which jobs are at a higher risk for MSI and should be given priority, you might examine first aid records and claims history for MSI and other relevant information.
The jobs of workers who have already had an MSI or have signs or symptoms of MSI will likely have a higher risk of MSI. Therefore, priority for risk identification should be given to jobs in the following situations:
• A worker has already had a work-related MSI claim
• A worker has been injured and reports to first aid with an MSI
• A worker has reported signs or symptoms of MSI
Risk identification should also take place before any problems or injuries are reported so that risk factors
can be eliminated or minimized and injuries prevented. To set priorities for preventive risk identification, you might, for example, interview workers, take a survey, or observe workers on the job. In addition, early risk identification can help prevent injuries in the following situations:
• A worker or Principal observes high exposures to risk factors in a job – for example, during workplace inspections and observations of current work methods.
• A new job is introduced or a process changes.
After identifying particular jobs that pose a higher risk of MSI to workers, the School District needs to identify the MSI factors that contribute to the risk for each of those jobs. There are several tools (such as checklists and worksheets) available. Tools to help identify jobs or tasks incorporating exposures that pose a risk of MSI can be obtained from the District Health and Safety officer. These tools help identify risk factors that require further investigation to assess the risk to workers. Some of these tools take duration and magnitude into account along with the risk factors to help you establish priorities. Other methods can be used to identify risk factors as long as they include the risk factors listed in the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation (4.49).
If the risk identification step reveals an obvious and effect risk control that will eliminate or minimize the risk to workers, you do not need to conduct a separate risk assessment (3.4) before implementing controls (3.5). For example, if a receptionist twists her neck to view the computer monitor (which has been placed to one side), the employer may decide to alter the counter so there is room for the monitor to be placed directly in front of the worker. This control measure can be implemented without first assessing how long the worker is in that posture or how severe it is.
13.4 RISK
ASSESSMENT
School District No. 53 must assess the degree of risk (high, moderate, or low) to the workers in those jobs or tasks where exposure to risk factors has been identified. Risk assessment will help you decide which risk factors pose a risk of injury to workers and are therefore important to control.
For example, you may have identified an awkward stooping posture when a worker reaches to perform a task. During the risk assessment, you may find out that the worker does this task only occasionally or for a very short period of time during the day. There may be exposures to other factors (such as high force and repetition) associated with other tasks the worker performs for longer durations. In this example, force and repetition pose a greater risk and need control measures more urgently.
During risk assessment, the management must consult with workers who have signs or symptoms of MSI and with a representative sample of workers who perform the tasks being assessed. The sample should include workers who represent a range of characteristics such as gender, age, and height. Some situations, however, may not require a specific risk assessment. As stated in 13.3, if the risk control is obvious and effective, risk identification can lead directly to risk control. In such situations, you should consult with workers at the risk identification stage.
Risk assessment should be performed by people who understand the work process, the MSI risk factors, and the principles of risk assessment and control. The basic principles of risk assessment involve looking at the extent of exposure to assess how great the risk is. Extent of exposure includes magnitude (how
much), duration (how long), and frequency (how often, how fast).
To take extent of exposure into account, consider questions such as the following:
• What is the magnitude of the exposure? For example, how much force is needed or how severe is the awkward posture?
• How long (total time) is the worker exposed to the risk? For example, is the worker exposed to the risk for a full shift or for two hours?
• How frequently is the worker exposed to the risk? For example, is the task repeated many times each shift or does it occur only occasionally?
A risk assessment should also consider the following:
• What is the combined effect of all the identified risk factors? For example, lifting heavy objects from the floor to a height above the shoulders several times a minute poses a greater risk than lifting the same objects between the knee and waist level infrequently.
• What body part is most likely to be affected? For example, when a person is working overhead, the shoulders and neck may be affected.
If risk identification revealed exposure to risk factors that should be assessed, it may be more efficient to conduct risk assessment immediately following identification. In this way, the person doing the
identification can use information already gathered, ask questions, and observe workers to assess whether the exposure is significant enough or frequent enough to require risk controls.
Risk assessment tools are available in APPENDIX 1-16. These will help you assess the degree of risk (high, moderate, or low), determine where controls are needed, establish priorities for implementing controls to prevent MSI.
13.5 RISK
CONTROL
If risk controls are needed, the next step is to look at options. The School District must eliminate the risk of MSI, or, if that is not practicable, must minimize the risk. You should implement the risk controls selected without undue delay. If there will be a delay in implementing permanent controls, interim controls must be implemented without delay.
First consider engineering or administrative controls that eliminate the risk to workers. If this is not
practicable, introduce controls that minimize the risk. Personal protective equipment can be used only if
engineering or administrative controls are not applicable.
Engineering controls are the arrangement, design, or alteration of the physical work environment, equipment, or materials. For example, a backpack vacuum is an engineering control that custodians can use to reduce the risk of MSI when moving from room to room.
Administrative controls include the use and scheduling of resources and staffing to improve how the work is organized and performed. For example, limiting the hours a painter spends at a task is an administrative control that can reduce the amount of repetitive motion.
Personal protective equipment and clothing may be used as a control if other controls are not practicable, or in addition to other controls. For example, workers may wear vibration-dampening gloves while using a chainsaw or wear knee pads while working on their knees to install flooring. Some control measures will eliminate the exposure to the risk factor. Where that is not possible, the control measures should result in the extent of exposure being reduced in at least one of the following ways.
Reduced magnitude of exposure
Controls that reduce the magnitude of exposure involve, for example, reducing the force required or making the work posture more comfortable:
Use better-designed tools to reduce the effort. For example, use a lighter tool or a suspended tool to reduce the force needed to grip the tool (engineering control).
Redesign the work station to avoid excessive reaching. For example, change the height of the work surface to reduce the reaching distance and an awkward shoulder posture (engineering control).
Modify the work practice. For example, use two people to lift a heavy table instead of one person (administrative control).
Reduced duration of exposure
Reduced duration of exposure to the risk over the work shift involves reducing the total time the worker is exposed to the risk:
Use some mechanization to reduce the time spent during the day doing physical tasks. For example, use a mechanical stacker for some products during the shift (engineering control).
Rotate jobs to reduce the time spent doing manual handling. For example, rotate Librarian between manual stacking and unstacking books (administrative control).
Reduced frequency of exposure
Reduced frequency of exposure to the risk involves reducing the number of times the task is done in a period of time:
Use partial mechanization to reduce repetition. For example, use power tools for parts of the job and use hand tools only where power tools are not practical (engineering control).
Combine other tasks with the job to reduce repetition. For example, let a worker doing intense keyboarding tasks also handle non-keyboarding tasks such as customer service (administrative control).
Improved pattern of exposure
The pattern of exposure can be improved if the time the worker is exposed to the risk is divided into smaller blocks of time over the work shift. This control can be used where it is not practical to reduce the total duration of time on the task:
Organize the work so that highly physically demanding tasks are interspersed with less physically demanding tasks. For example, rotate workers so that each worker does the physically demanding task in two blocks of two hours instead of one block of four hours (administrative control).
In addition, to working through the MSI prevention process, management must investigate certain
situations involving MSI to determine contributory causes. An investigation must lead to risk controls that eliminate or minimize the risk to the injured worker and prevent an recurrence of similar incidents.
13.6
TRAINING
School District No. 53 will ensure that workers are trained to use the risk control measures. For example, if you provide a custodian with a riding floor cleaner, the worker must be trained to use the device properly. In addition, where safe work procedures have been implemented to reduce the risk of MSI, workers must be trained and supervised in those procedures. Workers must follow the safe work procedures they have been trained to use and must use any engineering controls and required personal protective equipment and clothing.
13.7
EVALUATION
School District No.53 will evaluate our control measures to determine how effective they are in eliminating or minimizing the risk of MSI. Some ways to evaluate the controls are:
Interviewing workers
Looking for decreases in the number and severity of signs and symptoms of MSI
Observing a reduction in the number of risk factors or in the severity of risk factors
Using a checklist or other tool to compare the exposure to risk factors before and after controls are implemented
If the risk has not been effectively controlled or if new risks have been created, re-examine the task and reconsider which controls may be needed. Additionally, the School District needs to evaluate the overall MSI prevention program at least once a year to make sure it continues to meet the objective of eliminating or minimizing the risks to workers.
13.8 INVESTIGATING AN MSI
School District No.53 is required to conduct an investigation into the following situations associated with MSI:
Where a worker has a work-related MSI requiring medical treatment
Where an incident had the potential to result in a serious MSI
Unsafe or harmful conditions must also be reported and investigated. For example, if a worker reports persistent signs or symptoms of MSI (such as swelling or tingling), there may be an unsafe work situation that could lead to a serious MSI. The unsafe condition must be investigated.
The focus of these MSI investigations is to:
Identify risk factors that likely contributed to the MSI or to the unsafe condition that may result in MSI
Implement controls to prevent the recurrence of similar injuries or to correct the unsafe condition To assist with the investigation process, a checlist is provided in APPENDIX 7. This checklist is useful in correlating which risk factors might have contributed to the injury of the specific body part.
In the MSI Investigation Chart, each risk factor gives examples of movements or activities. Some of the examples involve more than one risk factor (such as exerting force with a bent wrist).
Neck, shoulders, upper back
Lower back
Elbows, forearms, hands
Hips, knees, feet
13.9 ERGONOMIC PROGRAM EVALUATION FORM
Information used to evaluate the MSIP Program can be gathered from the following sources: DOCUMENTATION
Use the MSIP Program Evaluation Documentation Checklist to request relevant documents, records
and statistics, Appendix 1
List all existing and missing information
Evaluate the information provided. Note content strengths and weaknesses on the Program Evaluation Comments sheet, Appendix 2
List recommendations for upgrading MSIP Program documentation on the MSIP Program
QUESTIONNAIRES
Program and site-specific questionnaires may need to be developed, samples Appendix 4
If suitable, distribute questionnaires to a representative number of workers, supervisors, principals and management personnel who have MSIP Program responsibilities
It is not necessary for participants to sign their questionnaire INTERVIEWS
Interview a representative number of workers, supervisors, management personnel, MSIP Program
coordinators, joint health and safety committee members etc about the adequacy and effectiveness of the MSIP Program
Ask interviewees how the MSIP Program can be improved
Interview Techniques
The interviewer(s) must create an atmosphere that allows for complete and open participation by the worker(s). This can be done by:
Choosing a suitable location and time
Establishing rapport with the interviewee
Asking open/non-leading questions rather than closed/leading questions when soliciting comments
Probing for meaningful precise answers
Remaining neutral and objective
Thanking the interviewees for their cooperation
INSPECTIONS
Whenever possible, observe student and material handling activities (manual and mechanical).
Record your observations on the Inspection Comments, APPENDIX 5. List strengths and weaknesses observed. Include unsafe acts and conditions (e.g. incorrect lifting, faulty devices, workplace design and environment, work processes and routines).
COMPLETING AND SCORING THE EVALUATION
Place a check mark (√) to indicate “yes”, “no” or “N/A” (not applicable) after each question in the MSIP Program Evaluation report. APPENDIX 6
Use the Program Evaluation Comments sheet to reference specific program questions and to list program
Use the Inspection Comments, APPENDIX 5, sheet to list strengths and weaknesses observed during the
inspection.
Specify recommendations for improving the MSIP Program effectiveness by completing the MSIP
Program Recommendations sheet. APPENDIX 8
Completion of the MSIP Program Evaluation Score Sheet is optional. If the score sheet is used, enter an
overall rating of “S” (satisfactory) or “U” (Unsatisfactory) or, “P” (Pass) or “F” (Fail) for each MSIP
Program element specified on the MSIP Program Evaluation Score Sheet, APPENDIX 9
An effective MSIP Program usually has the following characteristics: 1. The required program elements are sufficiently detailed in writing. 2. The program content is technically correct.
3. The program is implemented.
4. Workers (management and labour) can adequately apply the program.
5. The program is enforced.
6. The program is periodically evaluated and upgraded as required.
The completed MSIP Program Evaluation Report should begin with a Table of Contents and
Executive Summary.
CORRECTIVE ACTION PLAN
Senior management must ensure that an action plan is developed which includes:
the MSIP Program deficiencies to be corrected
specific corrective action required to eliminate the deficiencies
the person(s) responsible for taking corrective action
a completion date for correcting program deficiencies
submission of an action plan to the WCB (when requested by the WCB)
FOLLOW-UP
The employer or designate must follow-up to ensure that remedial action has been taken to correct program deficiencies.
SECTION 13
13.10
Worker Questionnaire
This questionnaire is intended to help me better understand the nature of your job. I am particularly interested in the kinds of tasks you perform and the percentage of the day that you spend doing each one.
Employee name: __________________ Date: ____________________
Job Title: ________________________
In the following table, list the duties required to perform your job. Also identify the typical duration of each duty, any discomfort you experience and any comments you may have.
Duty Duration Discomfort Comments
Which of the duties above causes you the most physical discomfort?
___________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________
Describe the steps required to perform the above duty.
____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ Which tasks do you feel are the most awkward to perform?
____________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________
Which tasks do you spend most of your time doing?
___________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________
Which of the tasks you performed today do you think could cause repetitive strain injuries?
___________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________
List any tools you used today?
___________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________
List any tools you typically use, if not listed above.
___________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________
Is this a typical day for you? If no, why not?
___________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________
Which of the duties or tasks you perform do you think could cause repetitive strain injuries?
___________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________
Discomfort Analysis
Body Part No Discomfort Worst
Imaginable
0 2 4 6 8 10
1. Head-neck |---|---|---|---|---|
2. Right Shoulder-upper arm |---|---|---|---|---| 3. Right elbow-forearm |---|---|---|---|---| 4. Right wrist-hand |---|---|---|---|---| 5. Left shoulder-upper arm |---|---|---|---|---| 6. Left elbow-forearm |---|---|---|---|---| 7. Left wrist-hand |---|---|---|---|---| 8. Upper back-torso |---|---|---|---|---|
GENERAL ERGONOMIC RISK ANALYSIS CHECKLIST Work Area:_________________________ Date: _____________________________ Conducted by: ____________________________
A “yes” response indicates that an ergonomic risk factor may be present which requires further analysis. YES NO Manual Material Handling
Is there lifting of loads, tools, or parts?
Is there lowering of tools, loads, or parts?
Is there bending at the waist to handle tools, loads, or parts?
Is there twisting at the waist to handle tools, loads, or parts? Physical Energy Demands
Do tools and parts weigh more than 10 lb.?
Is reaching greater than 20 inches?
Is bending, stooping, or squatting a primary task activity?
Is lifting or lowering loads a primary task activity?
Is walking or carrying loads a primary task activity?
Is stair or ladder climbing with loads a primary task activity?
Is pushing or pulling loads a primary task activity?
Is reaching overhead a primary task activity?
Do any of the above tasks require five or more complete work cycles to be done within a minute?
Do workers complain that rest breaks and fatigue allowances are insufficient? Other Musculoskeletal Demands
Do manual jobs require frequent, repetitive motions?
Do work postures require frequent bending of the neck, shoulder, elbow, wrist, or finger joints?
For seated work, do reaches for tools and materials exceed 15 inches from the worker’s position?
Is the worker unable to change his or her position often?
Does the work involve forceful, quick, or sudden motions?
Does the work involve shock or rapid build up of forces?
Is finger pinch gripping used?
Do job postures involve sustained muscle contraction of any limb? Computer Workstation
Do operators use computer workstations for more than 4 hours a day?
Are there complaints of discomfort from those working at these stations?
Is the chair or desk non-adjustable?
Is the display monitor, keyboard, or document holder non-adjustable?
Does lighting cause glare or make the monitor screen hard to read?
Is the room temperature too hot or too cold?
Is there irritating vibration or noise? Environment
Is the temperature too hot or too cold?
Are the worker’s hands exposed to temperatures less than 70 degrees Fahrenheit?
Is there glare?
Is there excessive noise that is annoying, distracting, or producing hearing loss?
Is there upper extremity or whole body vibration?
Is air circulation too high or too low? General Workplace
Are walkways uneven, slippery, or obstructed?
Is housekeeping poor?
Is there inadequate clearance or accessibility for performing tasks?
Are stairs cluttered or lacking railings?
Is proper footwear worn?
Tools
Is the handle too small or too large?
Does the handle shape cause the operator to bend the wrist in order to use the tool?
Is the tool hard to access?
Does the tool weigh more than 9 lb?
Does the tool vibrate excessively?
Does the tool cause excessive kickback to the operator?
Does the tool become too hot or too cold? Gloves
Do the gloves require the worker to use more force when performing job tasks?
Do the gloves provide inadequate protection?
Do the gloves present a hazard of catch points on the tool or in the workplace? Administration
Is there little worker control over the work process?
Is the task highly repetitive and monotonous?
Does the job involve critical tasks with high accountability and little or no tolerance for error?
SECTION 13
13.11
Musculoskeletal Injury Risk Assessment Worksheets
Introduction & Purpose
The Musculoskeletal Injury Risk Assessment Worksheets can be used to help achieve compliance with
Section 4.48 of the Ergonomics (MSI) Requirements in the Occupational Health & Safety Regulation. For each risk factor identified, these worksheets will help you determine if the likelihood of injury is low, moderate, or high. You may select and fill out one or more worksheets for each task, depending on which risk factors were identified.
There are eight worksheets, one for each risk factor to be considered as required in Section 4.49 of the Occupational Health & Safety Regulation:
1. Force Required-Grip Force
2. Force Required-Lift, Lower or Carries Objects 3. Force Required-Pushes or Pulls Objects
4. Work Postures
5. Aspect of the Layout and Condition of Workplace or Workstation
6. Local Contact Stress
7. Environmental Conditions
8. Work Organization
There are no distinct worksheets for the risk factors Repetition, Duration, and Objects Handled. Instead these factors were incorporated into other worksheets where appropriate.
For each risk factor parameter, scenarios are described under the Low Risk, Moderate Risk, or High Risk columns. Corresponding scores reflect the risk i.e. a score of ‘1’ represents low risk, a score of ‘2’ represents moderate risk, and a score of ‘3’ represents high risk.
You can use these worksheets to determine appropriate risk controls. Where observations fall into a high risk category, look to see what the lower risk category requires to determine if it is practicable for you particular situation.
For each worksheet, a subtotal score can be determined. The subtotal for a particular worksheet can be compared before and after ergonomics improvements are made as evidence of risk reduction.
For all worksheets filled out for a particular task, a total score can be determined. The total score can be compared between tasks for prioritizing tasks for risk control (those with the highest total score have the highest risk).
Assessment Instructions
STEP 1 Fill out the Task Analysis Worksheet.
STEP 2 Select the applicable MSI Risk Assessment Worksheets to reflect the risk factors
identified.
STEP 3 Read down the first column to determine which risk factor parameters are applicable (Not
all parameters may be pertinent. For example, under Grip Force, vibration may not be present in a hand tool, therefore, skip ‘vibration’ and go to the next parameter).
STEP 4 For each pertinent parameter, circle the descriptor or parts thereof which best apply and enter the corresponding score in the far right column.
Note: When observations fit between the High and Low Risk categories, but a blank box exists for Moderate Risk, write in your specific scenario and enter a corresponding score of ‘2’. If a parameter is not present or observed, do not enter a score, and go to the next
parameter.
If there are 2 or more observations for a particular parameter, the highest score (highest risk category) should be recorded.
STEP 5 Add the corresponding scores and enter the subtotal in the space provided at the bottom of
the worksheet.
STEP 6 Once all applicable worksheets have been filled out, transfer the subtotals from the individual worksheets to the summary sheet in the column labeled Before.
STEP 7 Parameters which were described as high or moderate risk (corresponding scores of 2 or 3)
need to be targetted for risk control. The goal is to implement changes to reduce the overall risk which will be reflected in reduced subtotals on one or more worksheets or a reduced total score for a task.
STEP 8 After controls have been implemented, go through STEPS 2 to 5 and enter the total score
Task Analysis
Date of Assessment: ____________________
Job Title:_______________________________________________________
List tasks in the job and specify the relative percentage of a shift spent performing each task:
1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Task observed for this assessment: _______________________________________ List activities involved in task:
Include worker comments about task (i.e. discomfort, effort required):
Assessment Completed By: ___________________________ Name(s) of worker(s) observed/interviewed: ___________________________
Force Required - Grip Force
Low Risk Moderate Risk High Risk
Risk Factor Parameters
Score = 1 Score = 2 Score = 3 Enter scores below Wrist posture Neutral or straight wrist
position
Wrist in partial flexion or extension
Grasping while wrist in extreme range of motion
Gloves Good fitting, high friction Good fitting, poor
friction Poor fitting or increased slipperiness between hand and object Hand-arm vibration OH&S Regulation Section 7.25 Dampened, acceleration < 4 m/s/s Acceleration > 4 and < 12 m/s/s Acceleration > 12 m/s/s, above ISO Standard 5349-1986, or above ANSI Standard S3.34-1986
Grip type Power grip: thumb and
forefinger slightly overlap
Pinch grip but with palmar contact or partial power grip
Pinch grip or no overlap of thumb and forefinger
Grip span Thumb and forefinger
slightly overlap around a closed grip, or 3.7 cm diameter grip size
Thumb and forefinger overlap greatly
Requires a wide span grip
Grip effort Holds object weighing 10
lb. or less in power grip, or holds object weighing 2 lb. or less in pinch grip, or low worker effort
Medium worker effort Holds object weighing 10 lb. or more in power grip, or holds object weighing 2 lb. or more in pinch grip, or high worker effort
Object temperature Comfortably warm object Very cold object or cold
exhaust on hands
Object surface High friction surface to
allow worker to gain comfortable and efficient grip
Slippery object requiring increased grip force to hold
Frequency • Hands idle most of
the time or consistent conspicuous pauses • Less than 10 repetitions per minute when performed at least 60 minutes continuously
• Gripping for less than 5 seconds at once
• Slow or steady gripping but with frequent pauses
• Gripping for more than 5 seconds but less than 30 seconds at any one time
• More than 10 repetitions per minute but less than 60 minutes
continuous
• Rapid steady gripping, no opportunity for pauses
• Difficulty keeping up
• More than 10 repetitions per minute performed for at least 60 minutes
continuously
• Gripping for 30 seconds or more at once
Duration Up to 25% of shift 26 - 50% of shift 51 – 100% of shift
Exposure Pattern Occasional (not daily) Daily – intermittent Daily – continuous
Force Required - Lifts, Lowers, or Carries Objects
Low Risk Moderate Risk High Risk
Risk Factor Parameters
Score = 1 Score = 2 Score = 3 Enter score below Weight of object Less than 8 kg. (17 lb.) 8 - 23 kg. (17-51 lb.) More than 23 kg. (51 lb.)
Distance load is away from body
0 - 10 cm. (0-4 in.) More than 10 cm. (4 in.)
up to 25 cm. (10 in.) More than 25 cm. (10 in.)
Location of load at start or end of lift
Between hip and
shoulder height Between knee and hip height Below knee level or above shoulder height
Asymmetry Shoulders turned up to
20º, uses 2 hands
Shoulders turned 20 - 45º
Shoulders turned more than 45º, uses 1 hand
Size and shape of object
Small compact load Object > 50 cm. (20 in.) wide, > 30 cm. (12 in.)long, or has any two dimensions (such as height, width, or depth) adding up to > 75 cm. (30 in.)
Load condition Dry, predictable,
moderate temperature Slippery, wet, extremes of temperature (cold/hot), unpredictable
Weight distribution of load
Stable, solid load Top-heavy load, liquid,
shifting centre of gravity, or unbalanced
Hand coupling Hand wraps easily
around the object, hand holds are optimal in location and size
Hand is able to flex 90º around the object, handles or hand holds are less than optimal
No handles, surface of load is non-rigid or irregular in shape, or sharp resulting in poor grip
Seated lifting or lowering
Less than 1 kg. (2 lb.) 1-5 kg. (2 - 11 lb.) More than 5 kg. (11 lb.)
Carry Carries 8 kg or more less
than 3 m. (10 ft.)
Carrries 8 kg or more 3-9 m. (10 - 30 ft.)
Carries 8 kg or more greater than 9 m. (30 ft.)
Frequency Less than 1 lift, lower or
carry per minute 1 - 5 lifts, lowers, or carries per minute More than 5 lifts, lowers, or carries per minute
Duration Up to 25% of shift 26 - 50% of shift 51 - 100% of shift Exposure Pattern Occasional (not daily) Daily – intermittent Daily - continuous
Subtotal
Force Required - Pushes or Pulls Objects
Low Risk Moderate Risk High Risk
Corresponding score
Score = 1 Score = 2 Score = 3 Enter scores below Distance travelled Pushes or pulls 9 kg. Or
more less than 2 m. (7 ft.)
Pushes or pulls 9 kg or more 2 - 60 m. (7 - 197 ft.)
Pushes or pulls 9 kg or more more than 60 m. (197 ft.)
Force Less than 9 kg. (20 lb.) of
force required, no difficulty initiating movement
9 - 23 kg. (20 - 50 lb.) of force required such as moving a shopping cart loaded with 200lbs of groceries.
More than 23 kg. (50 lb.) of force required, difficult to initiate movement such as moving a 2 drawer full file cabinet across a carpeted floor
Handle height Variable height with
respect to user. Worker able to keep elbow bent between 80 - 100º
Height too high - worker’s arms elevated, or height too low – worker stooped or twisted
Floor surface Smooth, less than 10%
slope
Uneven, cluttered surface, > 10% slope
Asymmetry Arms in front of body,
uses 2 hands
Uses 1 hand in front of body, but body is not twisted
• reaches behind body
• is twisted
• uses 1 hand
• pushes/pulls across the front of the body
Condition of equipment
Well maintained equipment such as well lubricated castors
Poorly maintained
Stability of load Stable and well balanced Unstable, unpredictable,
shifting centre of gravity
Design of equipment
Suitable for the task sondiering size and weight of load, travel distance,e tc.
Equipment not suitable for task
Space
considerations
Open space - no
restriction Small space, standing close to load, difficult for worker to get enough leverage to start the load moving
Frequency 1 push or pull every 8
hours
1 push or pull every 6 seconds
Duration Up to 25% of shift 26 - 50% of shift 51 - 100% of shift Exposure Pattern Occasional (not daily) Daily – intermittent Daily - continuous
Subtotal
Work Postures
Low Risk Moderate Risk High Risk
Risk Factor Parameters 1 2 3 Enter corresponding scores below Neck Posture Also refer to Aspects of the Layout and Condition of the Workplace or Workstation and Environment worksheets • Bent forward 0-10º • Bent back 0-10º • Side bending 0-10º • Twisting 0-10º • Bent forward 10-30º • Bent back 10-20º • Side bending 10-30º • Twisting 10-20º
• Bent forward more than 30º
• Bent back more than 20º
• Side bending more than 30º
• Twisting more than 20º Trunk Posture Also refer to Aspects of the Layout and Condition of the Workplace or Workstation worksheets • Forward bending 0-20º • Backward bending 0-10º • Twisting 0-20º • Side bending 0-10º • Forward bending 20-45º • Backward bending 10-20º • Twisting 20-45º • Side bending 10-20º • Forward bending more than 45º • Backward bending more than 20º
• Twisting more than 45º
• Side bending more than 20º • Squatting or kneeling Shoulder Posture Also refer to Aspects of the Layout and Condition of the Workplace or Workstation worksheets
• Arm raised from shoulder in front of body 0-45º
• Arm raised to side of body 0-45º
• Arm behind body 0-10º • Arm raised from shoulder in front of body 45-90º • Arm raised to side of body 45-90º • Arm behind body 10-20º
• Arm raised from shoulder in front of body more than 90º
• Arm raised to side of body more than 90º
• Arm behind body more than 20º Wrist Posture Also refer to Aspects of the Layout and Condition of the Workplace or Workstation worksheets
• Wrist bent towards palm 0-15º
• Wrist bent backwards 0-25º
• Wrist bent towards pinkie 0-15º
• Wrist bent towards thumb 0-5º • Wrist bent towards palm 15-30º • Wrist bent backwards 25-40º • Wrist bent towards pinkie 15-20º • Wrist bent towards thumb 5-10º
• Wrist bent towards palm more than 30º
• Wrist bent backwards more than 40º
• Wrist bent towards pinkie more than 20º
• Wrist bent towards thumb more than 10º
Work Postures continued
Risk Factor Parameters Low Risk Score = 1 Moderate Risk Score = 2 High Risk Score = 3 Enter corresponding scores below Forearm PostureForearm not rotated or forearm turned so palms face inwards
Forearm rotation or forearms turned so palms face all the way up or down
Fingers In line with hand Bent somewhat
backwards
Bent extremely backwards
Seated Knee Posture
Knee angle between 95 and 120º when seated
Knee angle < 95º or > 120ºs when seated or kneeling
Ankle Posture
Ankle posture between 85º and 95º
Ankle posture <85º or >95º
Frequency Shoulder: less than 2.5
repetitions per minute if performed for 60 minutes continuously
Elbow, Forearm and Wrist: less than 10
repetitions per minute if performed for 60 minutes continuously
Fingers: less than 100
repetitions per minute if performed for 60 minutes continuously
Any: posture held less
than 5 seconds at once
Any: repeated less than
60 minutes continuously
Shoulder:more than
2.5 repetitions per minute performed less than 60 minutes continuously
Elbow, Forearm and Wrist: more
than 10 repetitions per minute performed less than 60 minutes continuously
Fingers: more than
100 repetitions per minute performed less than 60 minutes continuously
Any: posture held for
more than 5 seconds but less than 30 seconds at once
Shoulder: more than 2.5
repetitions per minute if performed for 60 minutes or more continuously
Elbow, Forearm and Wrist: more than 10
repetitions per minute if performed for 60 minutes or more continuously
Fingers: more than 100
repetitions per minute performed for 60 minutes or more continuously
Any: posture held for
more than 30 seconds at once
Duration Up to 25% of shift 26-50% of shift 51-100% of shift Exposure
Pattern
Occasional (not daily) Daily – intermittent Daily - continuous
Aspect of Layout and Condition of Workplace or Workstation
Low Risk Moderate Risk High Risk
Risk Factor Parameters
Score = 1 Score = 2 Score = 3
Enter correspondin g scores below Standing Work Height Also determine neck, shoulder, or trunk posture • Precision task: 95-120 cm. or 4-6 cm above worker’s elbow height
• Light work (e.g. assembly) 85-110 cm or 5-10 cm below worker’s elbow height
• Heavy work (downward force) task: 65-95 cm. or 20-40 cm below worker’s elbow height.
• Work heights are within guidelines (left) but awkward postures of the neck, shoulder or trunk still occur.
• Work heights are not within guidelines (right) but awkward postures of the neck, shoulder, or trunk do not occur. • Precision task: < 95 or >120 cm. • Light work <85 or >110 cm.
• Heavy work task: <65 or >95cm. Seated Work Height Also determine neck, shoulder, or trunk posture
• Precision work (highly visual): 80-110 cm.
• Light work (e.g. assembly) 63-76 cm.
• Computer work: 55-75 cm.
• Heavy work (downward force) task: 66-72 cm.
• Work heights are within guidelines (left) but awkward postures of the neck, shoulder or trunk still occur.
• Work heights are not within guidelines (right) but awkward postures of the neck, shoulder, or trunk do not occur.
• Precision work (highly visual): <80 or >110 cm.
• Light work (e.g. assembly): <63 or >76 cm. • Computer work: <55 or >75 cm. • Heavy work (downward force) task: <66 or >72 cm. Standing Horizontal Reach Also determine shoulder, wrist or trunk posture
• One hand reach <46 cm.
• Two hand reach <36 cm.
• Side reach <46 cm.
• No reaching behind the body
• Horizontal reach distance within guidelines (left) but awkward posture of the neck, shoulder or posture occurs
• Horizontal reach distances not within guidelines (right) but no awkward neck, shoulder or trunk postures
•
• One hand reach >46 cm.
• Two hand reach >36 cm.
• Side reach >46 cm.
• Any reaching behind the body
Sitting Horizontal Reach Also determine shoulder, wrist or trunk posture
• Frequent forward reach <30 cm.
• Frequent side reach <40 cm.
• Occasional forward reach <75 cm.
• Occasional side reach <80 cm
• Infrequent forward reach <50 cm.
• Infrequent side reach <60 cm.
• Horizontal reaches within guidelines (left) but awkward trunk or shoulder postures occur.
• Horizontal reaches not within guidelines (right) but no awkward trunk or shoulder postures occur. • Frequent forward reach >30 cm.
• Frequent side reach >40 cm. • Occasional forward reach >75 cm. • Occasional side reach >80 cm • Infrequent forward reach >50 cm. • Infrequent side reach >60 cm.
Aspect of Layout and Condition of Workplace or Workstation continued
Risk Factor Parameters Low Risk Score = 1 Moderate Risk Score = 2 High Risk Score = 3 Enter corresponding scores below Chair or Seating• Lumbar support is adjustable and tilts.
• Seat pan tilts, has a waterfall design and is covered with breathable material.
• Easily height adjustable and has a 5-star base.
• Lumbar support is not adjustable and backrest does not tilt.
• Seat pan is covered with breathable material but does not tilt.
• Height adjustable with tools with 5-star base.
• No lumbar support.
• Seat pan is hard and does not tilt.
• Not height adjustable or does not have 5-star base support.
Work Area Characteris tics
• Open area
• Work postures are not confined
• Moderately sized work pace with minimal clutter. • Worker occasionally needs to accommodate posture due to restriction in work space.
• Small tight work space.
• Worker needs to get into awkward posture to perform task.
• Highly cluttered area, worker needs to work around or over obstacle. Floor Surfaces • Stands/walks on anti-fatigue mat.
• Stands using footrests regularly
• Stands with foot-rest occasionally. • Stands/walk on mat (not anti-fatigue) occasionally • Stands or walks on non-resilient floor, no foot-rest Pedals or Knee/Foot Controls
• Ankle remains between 85 and 95º
• No exertion required to actuate
• Ankle posture less than 85º or more than 95º but not near extreme joint range of motion
• Some exertion to actuate
• Ankle posture near extreme joint range of motion
• Requires standing on one leg to operate.
• Ankle inverted (foot turned in to actuate)
• Noticeable exertion to actuate
Duration Up to 25% of shift 26-50% of shift 51-100% of shift Exposure
Pattern
Occasional (not daily) Daily – intermittent Daily - continuous
Local Contact Stress
Low Risk Moderate Risk High Risk
Risk Factor Parameters
Score = 1 Score = 2 Score = 3 Enter scores below
From an object • Workers report little pressure is exerted on the skin
• Tool has rounded handle
• Workers report some pressure is exerted on the skin
• Tool has contoured handle
• Marks or depressions left on the skin, or high pressure/force is exerted
• Tool has sharp edges
• Tool butts into base of hand
• Tool has ringed handles (scissors)
Uses hand or body part to impact
Hand or body part impacts soft or rounded object
Hand or body part impacts hard object
From kneeling or resting body weight
Cushioning used
regularly Leaning on semi-hard surface without cushioning
Leans on hard surface without cushioning
Frequency Occurs infrequently
(more than 60 minutes passes)
Occurs occasionally
(every 10 to 60 minutes) Occurs frequently (every 10 minutes or less)
Duration Up to 25% of shift 26 - 50% of shift 51 – 100% of shift Exposure Pattern Occasional – not daily Daily – intermittent Daily - continuous
Environmental Conditions
Low Risk Moderate Risk High Risk
Risk Factor Parameters
Score = 1 Score = 2 Score = 3 Enter score below
Lighting conditions Appropriate lighting for task. Worker can assume comfortable position to see task.
Occasional lighting changes result in worker using awkward posture.
Low light level, worker hunching over OR high light level, worker avoiding glare by changing work position.
Ambient temperature Working temperature is comfortable and unnoticeable Working temperature is occasionally uncomfortable Working temperature is frequently uncomfortable Temperature of objects handled Comfortably warm objects are handled and hands are not exposed to uncomfortably cold temperatures
Object temperature and hand temperature are between those described for 1 and 3
The object is very cold or there is cold exhaust on hands
Noise level under usual conditions (i.e. with hearing protection if usually worn)
Noise level is comfortable and unnoticeable
Noise levels are occasionally uncomfortable and distracting
Noise levels are frequently annoying, distracting or producing hearing loss
Stands or sits on a vibrating surface
(ISO 2631/1985)
Vibration dampened or comfortable
Vibration is present and noticeable
Vibration is measured as excessive, is annoying or uncomfortable
Exposure Pattern Occasional – not daily Daily – intermittent Daily – continuous Shift Duration Up to 25% of shift 26-50% of shift More than 50% of shift
Subtotal
Work Organization
Low Risk Moderate Risk High Risk
Risk Factor Parameters
Score = 1 Score = 2 Score = 3 Enter scores below
Work-recovery cycles
Consistent, conspicuous
pauses Frequent pauses No regular pauses Task variability Variety of tasks
performed allowing for use of different body parts/muscle groups
Tasks are repetitive for short periods and somewhat variable troughout the entire workday
Monotonous or repetitive use of the same body parts using the same muscle groups for long periods of time
Work rate • No difficulty
keeping pace
• Self paced
• Slow or steady
motions • Rapid steady motion and/or difficulty keeping up
• Incentive pay or fast maching pacing Exposure Pattern Occurs infrequently
(more than 60 minutes passes)
Occurs occasionally (every 10 to 60 minutes)
Occurs frequently (every 10 minutes or less) Duration Up to 25% of shift 26 - 50% of shift 51 - 100% of shift
Summary
Worksheet Subtotal Before Change Subtotal After Change
1. Force Required-Grip Force 2. Force Required-Lift, Lower or Carries Objects 3. Force Required-Pushes or Pulls Objects 4. Work Postures
5. Local Contact Stresses 6. Aspect of layout and
Condition of Workplace or Workstation 7. Environmental Conditions 8. Work Organization Total Score
SECTION 13
13.11
INDUSTRY MUSCULOSKELETAL INJURY PREVENTION ( MSIP)
PROGRAM EVALUATION
INTRODUCTION:
As specified in the WCB Industrial Health and Safety Regulations, employers are required to establish, implement and maintain written programs for the prevention of occupational injuries and diseases. An effective Musculoskeletal Injury Prevention (MSIP) Program can meet that requirement.
Elements of an MSIP Program are specified in this reference guide and workbook which focuses on the prevention of musculoskeletal injuries during manual handling of patients (eg. lifting and transferring) and inanimate objects (eg. loaded linen, food, garbage carts; materials and supplies; diagnostic imaging equipment; stretchers, etc.).
If you require further information about MSIP program development, implementation or evaluation, please phone or visit your nearest WCB office. WCB ergonomists and Prevention Division Field Officers are available for consultation.
THE MSIP PROGRAM EVALUATION PROCESS
*A written MSIP Program is established and implemented
↓
The program must include specified elements and activities
↓
The program must be periodically reviewed and evaluated to determine its effectiveness.
↓
Information about the MSIP Program is obtained from documents, questionnaires, interviews and inspections.
↓
The information is compared to required program elements.
↓
The MSIP Program strengths and weaknesses are noted and summarized in report form.
↓
An action plan to correct deficiencies is made.
↓
Program adjustments are made when necessary.
* This process must include the full participation of the employer, its management, workers and the Joint
A GOOD EVALUATION PROVIDES FOR:
1. A review of program elements.
2. A review of the application of each program element.
3. A method of developing a comprehensive action plan to correct any deficiencies.
CHARACTERISTICS OF AN EFFECTIVE INJURY PREVENTION
PROGRAM:
1. The required program elements are sufficiently detailed in writing.
2. The program content is technically correct.
3. The program is fully implemented.
4. Management and workers can adequately understand and apply the program.
5. The program is enforced.
6. The program is periodically evaluated and upgraded as required.
SIX BASIC STEPS IN THE REVIEW PROCESS:
1. Set terms of reference.
2. Gather the necessary information:
Documents, statistics and records Questionnaires
Interviews Inspections
3. Analyze and organize the information.
4. Report the findings.
5. Develop and implement an action plan.
TERMS OF REFERENCE
The MSIP Program evaluation process should be initiated by establishing terms of reference which specify such items as:
• the names of program evaluation participants
• program evaluation activities, dates and responsibilities for:
• collection and review of documents, statistics and records
• distribution and collection of questionnaires (optional )
• interviews
• inspections
• a distribution list for the program evaluation report
• dates and responsibilities for development of the action plan
• dates and responsibilities for ensuring implementation of the plan
• responsibilities for ensuring follow-up of the implemented action plan to correct any program deficiencies
A Terms of Reference Record sheet is provided in 13.12 (MSIP Program Evaluation Report). A Terms
INFORMATION GATHERING METHODS AND GUIDELINES
Information used to evaluate the MSIP Program can be gathered from the following sources:
DOCUMENTATION
• Use the MSIP Program Evaluation Documentation Checklist to request relevant
documents, records and statistics
• List all existing and missing information.
• Evaluate the information provided. Note content strengths and weaknesses on the Program
Evaluation Comment.s
• List recommendations for upgrading MSIP Program documentation on the MSIP Program
Recommendations.
QUESTIONNAIRES
• Program and site-specific questionnaires may need to be developed. A sample Industry
Musculoskeletal Injury Prevention Program Evaluation.
• If suitable, distribute questionnaires to a representative number of workers, supervisors and management personnel who have MSIP Program responsibilities.
• It is not necessary for participants to sign their questionnaire.
INTERVIEWS
• Interview a representative number of workers, supervisors, management personnel, MSIP
Program coordinators, joint safety and health committee members etc. about the adequacy and
effectiveness of the MSIP Program.
• Ask interviewees how the MSIP Program can be improved.
Interview techniques: The interviewer(s) must create an atmosphere that allows for complete and open participation by the worker(s). This can be done by:
• Choosing a suitable location and time
• Establishing rapport with the interviewee
• Asking open / non-leading questions rather than closed / leading questions when
soliciting comments
• Probing for meaningful precise answers
• Remaining neutral and objective
• Thanking the interviewees for their cooperation
INSPECTIONS
• Record your observations on the Inspection Comments sheet, List strengths and weaknesses
observed. Include unsafe acts and conditions
( e.g. incorrect lifting, faulty lifting devices, workplace design and environment, work processes and routines ).
COMPLETING AND SCORING THE EVALUATION
Place a check mark (√) to indicate "yes", "no" or "N/A" (not applicable) after each question in the MSIP Program Evaluation report.
Use the Program Evaluation Comments sheet to reference specific program questions and to list program
strengths and weaknesses.
Use the Inspection Comments sheet to list strengths and weaknesses observed during the inspection.
Specify recommendations for improving the MSIP Program effectiveness by completing the MSIP
Program Recommendations sheet (see sample on Part One Page 12).
Completion of the MSIP Program Evaluation Score Sheet is optional. If the score sheet is used, enter an
overall rating of "S" (satisfactory) or "U" (Unsatisfactory) or, "P" (pass) or "F" (Fail) for each MSIP Program element specified on the MSIP Program Evaluation Score Sheet ( see sample on Part One Page
14 ).
An effective MSIP Program usually has the following characteristics: 1. The required program elements are sufficiently detailed in writing. 2. The program content is technically correct.
3. The program is implemented.
4. Workers (management and labour) can adequately apply the program. 5. The program is enforced.
6. The program is periodically evaluated and upgraded as required.
The completed MSIP Program Evaluation Report should begin with a Table of Contents and
Executive Summary.
CORRECTIVE ACTION PLAN
Senior management must ensure that an action plan is developed which includes:
• the MSIP Program deficiencies to be corrected
• specific corrective action required to eliminate the deficiencies
• the person(s) responsible for taking corrective action
• submission of an action plan to the WCB (when requested by the WCB)
FOLLOW-UP
• The employer or designate must follow-up to ensure that remedial action has been taken to
correct program deficiencies.
• A WCB Officer who conducts a program evaluation must follow-up on any inspection reports
issued to an employer as a result of the evaluation.
MSIP PROGRAM EVALUATION
DOCUMENTATION CHECKLIST
To assist with the MSIP Program Evaluation, please complete this documentation checklist by placing a check mark (√) in the appropriate space after each item.
Document Provided
1) MSIP Program Policy Yes___ No____
2) Written practical safe work procedures Yes___ No____
3) Training of workers and supervisors
( e.g. Instruction and training records ) Yes___ No____
4) Regular inspection and monitoring:
i) inventory list of handling devices / equipment
Yes___ No____
ii) equipment inspection records
Yes___ No____
iii) preventative maintenance schedules
( e.g. for mechanical devices ) Yes___ No____
iv) equipment maintenance / service records Yes___ No____
v) other ( specify ): Yes___ No____
______________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________
5) First aid services and equipment
( e.g. first aid employee incident records ) Yes___ No____
6) Investigation of accidents and disease:
i) incident / accident investigation
records related to MSIs Yes___ No____
ii) specific MSI injury and claims statistics
(i.e. frequency, severity, costs, occupation,
7) Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committee
i) joint committee minutes regarding MSI
prevention Yes___
