Ergonomic Risk Assessments
Create healthier work systems, reduce workplace injuries, and comply with the Ergonomics Regulations.
The Ergonomics Regulations of the Occupational Health and Safety Act require all employers to conduct ergonomic risk assessments of the workplace.
Poor ergonomics can lead to musculoskeletal disorders, reduced productivity, increased absenteeism, and costly workplace injuries. Under the Ergonomics Regulations of the OHS Act, employers have a legal duty to identify, assess, and control ergonomic risks in the workplace.
Absolute Health Services conducts professional Ergonomic Risk Assessments to help organisations identify ergonomic hazards, reduce employee exposure to ergonomic risks, and create healthier, safer, and more productive workplaces.
What is an Ergonomic Risk Assessment?
An Ergonomic Risk Assessment is a systematic evaluation of the way employees interact with their work environment, including workstations, equipment, tools, machinery, technology, and work processes.
The purpose of the assessment is to identify ergonomic hazards, evaluate and prioritise ergonomic risks, and recommend practical control measures that reduce the likelihood of work-related injuries and improve overall workplace compliance and performance.
Why are Ergonomic Risk Assessments important?
Poorly designed work systems can contribute to a wide range of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), including lower back pain, neck and shoulder strain, tendonitis, and carpal tunnel syndrome. These injuries often develop gradually over time and can have a significant impact on employee wellbeing, productivity, and business performance.
By identifying ergonomic risks early and implementing appropriate control measures, employers can create safer work environments while improving employee comfort, efficiency, and overall system performance.
Are Ergonomic Risk Assessments legally required?
Yes. The Ergonomics Regulations require employers to conduct ergonomic risk assessments before work commences where employees may be exposed to ergonomic risks, and to review these assessments at least once every two years. Department of Employment and Labour inspectors are actively inspecting workplaces and enforcing ergonomic compliance.
Because ergonomic risks exist in virtually every workplace – including offices, warehouses, manufacturing facilities, healthcare environments, and other workplaces – ergonomic risk assessments are a legal requirement for employers across all industries.
What does an Ergonomic Risk Assessment include?
One of our certified Ergonomic Risk Assessors will conduct an on-site assessment of your workplace, all employees, work systems, and workstations to identify ergonomic hazards and evaluate employee exposure to ergonomic risks. Following the assessment, you’ll receive a comprehensive written report that includes:
- Identified ergonomic hazards
- Evaluation and prioritisation of ergonomic risks
- Photographic evidence where appropriate
- Practical recommendations for reducing ergonomic risks
- Suggested control measures to improve workplace ergonomics
The report provides management with a clear action plan for improving workplace health, reducing injury risks, and supporting compliance with the Ergonomics Regulations.
The benefits of an Ergonomic Risk Assessment
An Ergonomic Risk Assessment helps your organisation to:
- Meet one of the key requirements of the Ergonomics Regulations
- Identify and reduce ergonomic risks
- Improve workstation and work system design
- Prevent work-related musculoskeletal disorders
- Improve employee health and wellbeing
- Increase workplace productivity
- Reduce absenteeism associated with ergonomic injuries
- Create a healthier, safer, and more efficient workplace
Ergonomic Risk Assessment Prices*:
Small company size or Low Risk:
1-day R8,750.00 ex VAT (½ day assessment, ½ day report)
Medium company size or Medium Risk:
2-days R15,000.00 ex VAT (1 day assessment, 1 day report)
Large company size or High Risk:
3-days R22,500.00 ex VAT (3 days) + additional cost per day as required R 7,500.00
*Prices are approximate, exclude VAT and any applicable travel and accommodation costs, and are subject to change.
