Ergonomic Workstation Assessment

A workstation is the entire area used by a worker when carrying out a specific task or job (such as a computer/desk/chair in an office, a cashier/checkout console at a supermarket, a position in a factory on a production line or the driver’s seat in a car or truck.

An ergonomic assessment adopts a risk management approach to the identification and control of hazards (physical, psychosocial and organisational). Without it, aches and pains, stiffness and headaches can lead to staff sustaining soft tissue injuries, reduced productivity and/or requiring time off.

The assessments can be tailored to meet the requirements of the specific work place or individual’s need, from a brief “screening” to a comprehensive assessment. Our ergonomic assessments cover the following:

• Assessment of work duties.
• Assessment of physical symptoms and potential risk factors.
• Seat up and/or alter workstation (if needed).
• Education on preventative measures and work place exercises.
• A written report for each individual to contain all recommendations for optimal ergonomic workstation set up (such as equipment needs, environmental changes).
• Equipment can be arranged for trail as required.

Work Place Assessment

This is the evaluation of a person following injury or illness to assist them to return to their pre-injury role or alternative duties safely. Both the employer and employee are involved in the assessment. It aims to assess the physical, psychosocial, cognitive and communication demands of the job and we provide practical recommendations to ensure a sustainable outcome. Our Work Place assessments cover the following:

• Identification of key tasks and the physical requirements for tasks.
• Determining availability of alternative/light tasks.
• If required, negotiating a Graduated Return to Work programme with employer/employee and providing support/education/advice through monitoring.
• Comment if any modifications or equipment may assist the employee to perform their work tasks more easily.
• Communicating with key stakeholders (ACC Case Managers, Employers, General Practitioner, Health Professionals) to help clients achieve a safe and successful return to work outcome.

Graduated Return to Work Plan

A graduated return to work plan is a written plan with agreed goals and actions aimed at assisting an injured employee remain at or return to work. It details any treatment, actions and assistance required to support the injured employee to recover and return to suitable duties. We can provide a monitoring service that aides the injured person while gradually returning to pre-injury hours and or tasks. This can include:

• Supervision and advice regarding work practices, for example posture/lifting techniques.
• Troubleshooting alternative duties and strategies to address barriers to return to work.
• Assisting the injured person to maintain a safe level of work activity in the work place whilst recovering from an injury.

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