Defining workplace responsibility
Who’s in charge of ergonomics?

Responding is Jonna Patama, ergonomist, Treston Group, Jyväskylä, Finland.
Workplace ergonomics goes beyond physical comfort – it’s a strategy to prevent injuries, boost productivity and support employee well-being. However, the responsibility for implementing ergonomics often spans multiple roles within an organization.
This raises the question: Who truly owns ergonomics in the workplace?
Health and safety pros: frontline champions
Health and safety teams often lead the charge on ergonomics. Their primary focus is minimizing musculoskeletal disorders and work-related injuries through risk assessments, hazard identification and implementing ergonomic solutions. Environmental, health and safety professionals also train employees to recognize ergonomic challenges and adopt safer practices, which may entail workstation adjustments or learning proper lifting techniques.
Regulatory requirements, such as those set by OSHA to maintain a workplace free from recognized hazards, highlight the critical role of ergonomics in ensuring safety. By identifying and addressing risks, EHS teams ensure safety initiatives align with industry standards and legal expectations. However, ergonomics isn’t a task EHS teams can successfully tackle alone.
Human resources: advocates for employee well-being
HR plays a key part in promoting a culture that values ergonomics. By incorporating ergonomic principles into onboarding and training, HR ensures employees understand safe work habits from the start. HR personnel also manage accommodations for workers with specific needs, ensuring inclusivity and adherence to safety guidelines.
HR’s role often includes managing wellness programs and advocating for investments in ergonomics, such as adjustable workstations or antifatigue mats. These measures enhance employee satisfaction and support efforts to address workplace hazards proactively.
Leadership: driving the vision
Senior leadership is crucial for prioritizing ergonomics by ensuring programs receive necessary funding and visibility. Leaders who understand the benefits – such as reduced absenteeism and improved morale – integrate ergonomics into strategic planning.
Leadership’s investment in workplace safety reflects a commitment to both employee welfare and organizational success. Championing ergonomics embeds it as a core element of operational success.
Cross-functional collaboration: a shared responsibility
Ergonomics requires collaboration between EHS teams, HR and leadership. Cross-functional committees can align goals, share insights and ensure consistency. For instance, EHS might identify risks, HR addresses employee-specific concerns and leadership allocates resources for solutions.
Employee empowerment: the key to success
Employees are often the first to notice discomfort or inefficiencies in their workspaces. By encouraging open communication and providing self-assessment tools, organizations empower employees to take an active role in ergonomic practices. This engagement swiftly addresses issues, creating a safer workplace.
The role of an in-house ergonomist
Organizations with an in-house ergonomist gain specialized expertise in bridging engineering, safety and employee needs. Ergonomists assess risks, recommend solutions and integrate ergonomic principles into operations.
Conclusion
So, who’s in charge of ergonomics? Everyone. Although EHS teams may lead, HR, leadership and employees all share the responsibility. Prioritizing ergonomics reduces risks, boosts morale and improves safety. Including it in environmental, social and governance principles shows commitment to employee welfare and sustainability. Collaboration creates safer, healthier and more productive workplaces.
Editor's note: This article represents the independent views of the author and should not be considered a National Safety Council endorsement.
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