Ergonomics matches workplace conditions and job demands to a person’s capabilities, to improve worker safety and productivity. Applying the science of ergonomics can be especially helpful in reducing the risk of musculoskeletal injury (MSI), which is the most common work-related injury in BC.
The BCIT Ergonomics Program consists of a Written Ergonomic Program [PDF], online training content, workstation assessments, and consultation on purchasing furniture and equipment. The BCIT OHS Division will help ensure that ergonomically correct office furniture is purchased.
Employees, who experience signs or symptoms of MSI, must report this to their supervisor immediately, and can request a workstation assessment by the BCIT OHS Division.
The BCIT OHS Division has a quick guide to Check Your Posture [PDF].
To schedule a workstation assessment, contact BCIT Occupational Health and Safety.
It is also important that both staff and supervisor recognize Manual Materials Handling (MMH) hazards, follow safe working procedures and implement effective ergonomic interventions that eliminate or minimize the risk and impact of MMH injuries.
BCIT’s Ergonomic Program offers two following quick guides for MMH tasks:
Musculoskeletal injuries
Musculoskeletal injuries (MSI) are an injury or disorder of the muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, nerves, blood vessels or related soft tissue including a sprain, strain and inflammation, that may be caused or aggravated by work (OHS Regulation section 4.46). These injuries are also known as repetitive motion or repetitive strain injuries (RSIs).
If you experience any MSI signs:
- swelling
- redness
- difficulty moving a particular body part
Or any MSI symptoms:
- numbness
- tingling
- pain
Report them to your supervisor and first aid by using the staff/student injury report form.
For more information, refer to SSEMOHS@bcit.ca or BCIT Disability Management.
Additional resources
- Ergonomics and Work at Home [PDF]
- Home Office Ergonomics Checklist [PDF]
- How to Make Your Computer Workstation Fit You
- Office Ergonomics [PDF]
- Office Stretches [PDF]
- CCOHS – Office Ergonomics
- CCOHS – Manual Materials Handling (MMH)
- Recreation Services Workout Programs
- Order information for Preferred Office Equipment [PDF]