How Does Ergonomic Safety Training Reduce Workplace Injuries?

As an employer, you’re always looking for ways to keep your team safe, efficient, and healthy. After all, workplace injuries are costly; not just in dollars, but in lost time, lower morale, and decreased productivity. Because of this, you should always be looking for ways to train your employees to recognize and combat hazards in the workplace. But oftentimes, we give more attention to specific hazards that we deem “deadly” or “fatal” than to the hazards that are present every day, hurting people over time while being ignored. This is understandable, since electrical wires and buzz saws are very clearly perceived dangers to our eyes, but while these present immediate, noticeable danger, there are many things that are common in everyday workplaces that, over time, can also lead to serious injuries. Things such as sitting, lifting, or typing. These are not often thought of when discussing workplace safety, and that’s why ergonomics is so important.

Ergonomic safety training teaches employees how to work in ways that reduce strain on their bodies. It focuses on preventing musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs)—injuries that affect muscles, nerves, tendons, and joints. These injuries do not appear suddenly, but they are nonetheless important for any worker to be aware of.

This blog will explain how ergonomic safety training works, how it reduces injuries, and why it should be a key part of your workplace safety program.

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines Ergonomics as: An applied science concerned with designing and arranging things people use so that the people and things interact most efficiently and safely. This science is important because, when workstations, tools, and tasks are designed with the human body in mind, employees can work more comfortably and safely.

Ergonomic hazards are all around the workplace—sometimes in places you wouldn’t expect. Here are a few common risks:

● Repetitive motion: Doing the same task over and over (like typing or using a wrench) can wear down muscles and tendons.

● Poor posture: Sitting or standing in awkward positions can cause long-term back, neck, or shoulder pain.

● Lifting hazards: Picking up heavy or awkward objects without proper technique can lead to strains and sprains.

These risks often lead to musculoskeletal disorders, such as:

● Carpal tunnel syndrome from repetitive wrist movements

● Lower back pain from poor lifting technique

● Tendinitis from overuse of certain muscles

● Shoulder injuries from awkward overhead work

Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) are one of the most common types of workplace injuries. According to the Institute of Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME), MSDs have ranked first as the top cause of years lived with disabilities (YLDs) from 1990 to 2019, and according to the National Safety Council’s analysis of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), between 2011-2022 MSDs accounted for about 30% of all work-related injuries that result in days away from work (DAFW), with industries like transportation, warehousing, and trade being among the most affected. However, no matter what industry you’re in, ergonomics likely plays a role in your injury rates.

Ergonomic safety training is one of the most effective ways to reduce MSDs. One of the main goals of ergonomic training is to help employees take control of their own safety by helping them understand how to work in ways that minimize strain, reduce fatigue, and prevent injury. A good ergonomic safety training program typically covers:

● The basics of ergonomics and why it matters

● How to recognize ergonomic hazards in the workplace

● Techniques for reducing physical stress on the body

● Taking regular breaks from repetitive tasks

● Proper lifting and material handling techniques

● How to implement adjustable workstations, tools, and equipment

Training teaches employees to notice risky behaviors and situations, and how to combat them. For example, a warehouse worker might learn to spot when a box is too heavy to lift alone, or an office employee might realize their chair isn’t adjusted correctly. This awareness is powerful, as it helps workers take action before an injury occurs. Ergonomic training also builds better long-term habits. Over time, your team becomes more mindful of how they move and work. This leads to fewer overuse injuries and less physical strain during the day.

Now, you’re probably thinking, “This sounds great, but does it actually work?” The answer is: yes, and there’s data to back it up! Many companies have reported significant drops in workplace injuries after implementing ergonomic safety training. For example, according to the Chartered Institute of Ergonomics and Human Factors, effective office ergonomics interventions on average reduce the number of musculoskeletal problems by 61%, reduce lost workdays by 88% and reduce staff turnover by 87%. Similarly, according to the Institute for Work & Health in Canada (2017), ergonomic interventions may reduce up to 62% of workers’ compensation claims, rates of injuries by two thirds, and hours lost by 35%.

The data proves it. When combined with ergonomic improvements in the workplace, training can lead to long-lasting changes in injury rates.

Not all training programs are created equal. To make your ergonomic safety training effective, it should include five key elements.

1. Identifying and Assessing Hazards

The first step is learning how to spot ergonomic hazards. This might include:

● Watching how employees move and work

● Looking at injury reports

● Asking workers about discomfort or pain

This helps you focus your training on the areas that matter most.

2. Implementing Controls

Training should teach employees how to apply ergonomic controls. These include:

● Engineering controls: These involve modifying the work environment or equipment to reduce ergonomic risks. This can be done by modifying workstations, providing ergonomically designed tools, and redesigning tasks to reduce repetitive motion.

● Administrative controls: These involve changes in work procedures and policies. Rotating jobs, providing breaks, and implementing training programs can keep employees safe from ergonomic hazards.

● Personal Protective Equipment: This involves using equipment, such as gloves, knee pads, and back supports, to protect workers from specific ergonomic hazards.

3. Customization by Job Role

Not all jobs are the same, so your training shouldn’t be either. Customize your program based on job type. For instance:

● Office workers should learn about keyboard position, screen height, and chair adjustments.

● Warehouse staff need training on lifting, pushing, and pulling.

● Drivers should understand seat posture, vibration exposure, and rest breaks.

When training is job-specific, it becomes more relevant and more effective.

4. Involvement from Management and Employees

Buy-in from both sides is essential. Managers should support the program and model safe behaviors. Employees should be encouraged to speak up when they notice a hazard or need an adjustment. Open communication helps create a culture where ergonomics is a shared responsibility.

5. Ongoing Evaluation and Improvement

Don’t stop after one training session. Measure your program’s success by tracking:

● Injury and discomfort reports

● Employee feedback

● Productivity changes

● Updated rules and regulations

Make adjustments as needed. Ergonomic training should evolve as your workplace grows and changes.

Workplace injuries can cost your business more than just money—they can lower morale, reduce productivity, and damage your reputation. Fortunately, ergonomic safety training is a smart, cost-effective way to prevent these injuries before they happen. By teaching your team how to recognize ergonomic risks and build better work habits, you create a safer, healthier environment for everyone. Training also shows your employees that you value their well-being, and that goes a long way in building trust and maintaining loyalty.

Ergonomics safety training is not just a best practice—it is a legal requirement. Regulatory bodies such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) require employers to provide a safe workplace for their workers. This includes implementing defenses to protect workers from ergonomic hazards and providing training to keep them informed of the hazards in their workplace.

If you haven’t evaluated your ergonomic training program in a while, now is the time. Look for ways to update it, tailor it to your teams, and make it an ongoing part of your safety culture. Investing in ergonomic safety training today means fewer injuries, happier workers, and a stronger business tomorrow.

Safety Instruct’s online safety training courses help to educate employees on workplace safety and health regulations, policies, and best practices. These courses cover a wide range of topics—including Ergonomics—all designed to fit the needs of various industries. To find the courses you need for your business today, click the link below! https://www.safetyinstruct.com/