Participatory ergonomics
IWH has been researching participatory ergonomics (PE) since the early 2000s. PE programs encourage an organization’s workers, supervisors and other workplace parties to jointly identify and remove the hazards or risk factors in their workplace that can cause or aggravate work-related injuries, including musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). PE programs aim to reduce the incidence of MSDs, decrease the losses associated with injury-related absences and claims, and increase productivity by improving work methods and product quality.
Featured
Video
Participatory approach to health and safety in long-term care
Involve front-line staff when identifying and controlling hazards at long-term care homes. Those who do a job every day know the associated hazards best. A participatory approach can help prevent injuries.
Published: October 2, 2019
At Work article
Users of IWH’s participatory ergonomics guide report better awareness of key steps
An evaluation study finds there is high interest in participatory ergonomics, but little opportunity for implementation.
Published: November 2015
IWH in the media
Ergonomics programs drive down injury rates
Ontario utilities still have ergonomics programs in place years after participating in a research study, according to an article co-authored by Kitchener-Wilmot Hydro's George Minow, one of the study participants.
Published: Transmission & Distribution World, March 2015
At Work article
At Work article
Manufacturer learns participatory ergonomics worth the investment
An Ontario textile plant saved over a quarter-of-a-million dollars as a result of implementing a participatory ergonomics program, according to an economic evaluation performed by the Institute for Work & Health.
Published: April 2013
Journal article
Journal article
Process and implementation of participatory ergonomic interventions: a systematic review
Published: Ergonomics, October 2010
At Work article
At Work article
Ergonomics case study: Car parts manufacturer realizes benefits of PE program
An Ontario manufacturer opened its doors to researchers who helped implement a participatory ergonomics (PE) program to improve the musculoskeletal health of workers. The company has since learned that the PE program saved it almost a quarter-of-a-million dollars — and in the most unexpected place.
Published: July 2009
Research Highlights
Research Highlights
Manufacturer saves money with participatory ergonomic program
Participatory ergonomic (PE) programs may be worth undertaking based on their financial merits — savings found not in fewer or shorter work-related injury absences but in shorter absences due to non-work injuries.
Published: January 2009
Tools and guides
Reducing MSD hazards in the workplace: A guide to successful participatory ergonomics programs
This booklet outlines six key steps that have been shown in the research to contribute to the success of a participatory ergonomics program, based on a systematic review by IWH researchers.
Published: January 2009
Journal article
Journal article
Effectiveness of participatory ergonomic interventions on health outcomes: a systematic review
Published: Applied Ergonomics, May 2008
At Work article
At Work article
Resources and support are vital in a PE program
Research evidence shows that a participatory ergonomic (PE) program can help prevent musculoskeletal disorders in workers. Yet, what are some key elements of participatory ergonomics that can help ensure its success in workplaces?
Published: February 2008
Sharing Best Evidence
Factors for success in participatory ergonomics
In participatory ergonomics (PE), a team works together to identify risks, and change tools, equipment and work processes to improve workplace conditions. PE programs can reduce work-related injuries to muscles, tendons, ligaments and other soft tissues. This systematic review identifies the factors that can increase the likelihood of a successful PE program in workplaces.
Published: January 2008