- Change the work and workplace. Design new or change existing workstations, tools and equipment to fit the people doing the work. This approach uses engineering controls (adjustments and changes in the physical workplace) and administrative controls (changes to work planning like job rotation, rest breaks, and slowed pace). These controls are best supported by ergonomists, engineers and professionals qualified in ergonomics.
- Change the person. Change the capabilities, fitness and stamina of the person doing the work. This is personal fitness and wellness, and includes elements of stretching, exercise and conditioning. This tactic depends on the willingness and participation of individual employees, as well as their existing physical condition. This approach is typically supported by fitness trainers/specialists, physical therapists, and occupational therapists.
- Change how work is done. Get people to behave differently in hopes of reducing exposure to MSD risk factors. This is behavioral modification, and may include behavior-based safety programs, training and awareness campaigns and use of body mechanics. This requires individuals to change their perception of work and risk, and change how they perform work. This approach is typically supported by behavioral safety professionals/programs, training, and fitness trainers.
- Fit the person to the task. Measure the physical abilities (strength, reach, range of motion) of an individual and match his or her individual capabilities to the task. This includes conducting functional job analysis and pre-work screening to match functional job descriptions. It requires an investment in performing tests on each employee and the time to match them to the physical demands of a task.
- Fix the person. When a person experiences an MSD or sprain/strain injury, he or she must be diagnosed and treated, and then managed in the return-to-work process. This is medical management, a reactive program to reduce the losses due to injuries that have occurred. This program is best supported by healthcare providers (nurses and doctors) qualified in occupational health.
“Depending on your company resources, you may choose one, several or all of the above approaches,” Rostykus adds. “We do, however, recommend that the first approach (ergonomics) be the foundation of your process. For if it is done well, you become less reliant on the other approaches.”