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Safety, Health, Environment & Risk Management
Ministry of Labour - Monthly Inspections
Focused Enforcement - MSD Prevention, October-November 2012
Oct 1/12
The Ministry of Labour has developed a compliance strategy called Safe at Work Ontario (SWO). The primary focus of this strategy is to reduce workplace injuries and illnesses, improve the health and safety culture of workplaces and reduce the overall burden on the healthcare system. This strategy involves "focused enforcement programs" that include monthly inspection blitzes on sector-specific hazards which are designed to raise awareness and increase compliance with health and safety legislation.
| Laurier is considered an Industrial Establishment which falls under the Education Sector. This month the Ministry of Labour will be performing unannounced inspections on Musculoskeletal Disorder (MSD) Prevention in workplaces within our sector. |
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are injuries and disorders of the muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves and spinal discs, etc. They can develop as a result of ongoing exposure to repetitive work, forceful exertions and/or awkward postures. MSDs are the most common workplace lost-time injury in Ontario accounting for approximately 43% of all lost-time claims. Preventing MSD injuries is a key part of Laurier's health and safety program.
Things they may be looking for:
- That employees are trained to recognize and report MSD signs, symptoms, hazards and controls;
- That computer, laboratory and other workstations are ergonomically set up to minimize repetitive strain and awkward postures;
- That employees are trained in safety lifting techniques and manual material handling; and
- That items being handled (lifted, carried, moved) especially while employees are on ladders do not pose MSD - or fall-related hazards to workers.
For more information on MSD Prevention Inspections Click Here.
MSD Prevention Resources
- MSD Prevention Poster
- Safe Lifting Poster
- Industrial MSD Fact Sheet
- Pains and Strains Assessment Tool
- OHSCO MSD Prevention Guideline for Ontario
Ergonomic Assessment Program
A healthy, safe and comfortable work environment can help enhance an employee's job satisfaction, efficiency and overall attitude towards work. An Ergonomic Assessment Group has been established to provide ergonomic workstation assessments with the aim to prevent MSD injuries. Using creative solutions and collaboration between the employees and the assessment group, members strive to achieve the most simple, cost-efficient and effective solutions for problems of workspace discomfort and strain. The EOHS Department can also provide training and guidance to assist you in meeting your MSD Prevention requirements.
To request and Ergonomic Workstation Assessment, please complete the request form Click Here.
For more information on Laurier's Ergonomic Assessment Program Click Here.
| Related Information | Title | Type |
|---|---|---|
| 2010 | Ergonomics Fact Sheet | Document |
| 2010 | Stability Ball vs Office Chair | Document |
| 2010 | Stretching Fact Sheet | Document |
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