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The SFU Ergonomics Program consists of a program manual, awareness training, task and workstation assessments, consultation on purchasing furniture and equipment, and resource documents.
Click here to download the 2023 SFU Ergonomics Program Manual.
For any ergonomics queries, please contact ergo_safe@sfu.ca.
Lab Ergonomics
Many SFU employees conduct research work in labs. The nature of lab work and the design of the workstations have many ergonomics risk factors which can contribute to development of a musculoskeletal injury.
Repetitive movements (pipetting, opening/closing tubes, typing), prolonged stationary postures (sitting, standing or unsupported arms), awkward postures (extended reaches, looking into a microscope), precision grip force (manipulating hand tools), and contact stress (soft tissues coming in contact with hard surfaces) are all common ergonomics risk factors.
Risk controls aim to limit exposure to these ergonomics risk factors and prevent musculoskeletal injury through modifying workstation and equipment set up and implementing administrative controls.
Training
Lab Ergonomics training has been developed to inform learners of musculoskeletal injuries and ergonomics risk factors associated with this type of work and provide guidance on how to reduce injury risk.
Lab Ergonomics training is conveniently located in Safety Essentials Training.
Resources
- Lab Ergonomics Guide
- Developed to inform employees about:
- Signs and symptoms of MSIs prevalent among lab employees
- Ergonomics risk factors associated with common lab tasks such as: pipetting, microscopy, use of biosafety cabinets and fumehoods, computer work, and manual materials handling
- Common risk controls and general tips to reduce injury risk
- It is recommended that all new lab members review this guide as a part of their safety orientation.
- Developed to inform employees about:
- Lab Ergonomics Checklist (adapted from UC Davis)
- It is recommended that lab supervisors use this checklist to identify and control ergonomics risk factors in the lab.
- Resource Document: Field Research Safety - Ergonomics
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