Ergonomic Assessments

Ergonomic assessments are commissioned by employers, occupational health providers, insurers and insurance brokers. Typical referrals include an employee reporting discomfort at their desk, a driver experiencing pain on business journeys, and manual roles where concerns have been raised or the employee has a pre-existing condition.

Referrers use the assessments to reduce sickness absence and presenteeism, support reasonable adjustments in the workplace, improve wellbeing at work and reduce the risk of litigation.

For a workstation assessment, the assessor reviews any existing medical issues, the working environment and the equipment in daily use, with particular attention to the position and adjustability of the chair, desk, screens, keyboard and mouse. The assessment establishes whether the way the person sits and works is causing or perpetuating their symptoms, then sets out recommended changes. It can be carried out face to face or by video call.

Vehicle assessments are carried out with the vehicle stationary. The clinician discusses the person's daily job tasks and any discomfort, reviews their driving position and set-up, makes adjustments where possible and gives advice to reduce symptoms.

For industrial assessments, the clinician or chartered ergonomist observes the work and discusses its demands with the employee and employer, covering the frequency of individual tasks and any environmental factors. Individual ergonomic risk assessments are undertaken where appropriate to the role and the employee.

Every assessment produces a written report listing the problems identified and the recommended changes. For workstation assessments this covers work equipment such as chairs, desks and computer equipment. Where additional items are needed, such as back rests, foot rests or alternative office equipment, the report identifies them and estimated costs can be provided on request.

Vehicle and industrial assessments are reported in the same way, with findings and recommendations for change. For industrial assessments, the findings are discussed with the employee and employer as required.