Ergonomics Program Resources & Procedures
Ergonomics Program Procedures
This page explains how the CSU Ergonomics Program operates, how it fits within the University’s Occupational Health framework, and the principles used to evaluate ergonomic hazards and develop recommendations.
Ergonomics & Occupational Health
Consistent with CSU Occupational Health Policy and the Occupational Health and Safety Program (OHSP), including associated risk assessment, training, and program materials, physical stressors and ergonomic hazards are recognized occupational health and safety considerations.
The CSU Ergonomics Program supports the university’s Occupational Health and Safety framework by assisting departments with the identification of ergonomic hazards, evaluation of risk, and development of feasible control measures intended to reduce employee exposure and injury risk. Recommended controls are developed using established ergonomic principles and the hierarchy of controls, with emphasis placed on practical and effective risk reduction strategies whenever feasible.
CSU Ergonomic Procedures
The CSU Ergonomics Program operates under established procedures that support consistent identification of ergonomic hazards, evaluation of ergonomic risk, and implementation of feasible control measures across the University.
Role and Responsibilities
Risk Management and Insurance
- Identifies ergonomic hazards and physical stressors
- Evaluates ergonomic risk
- Recommends feasible control measures
- Provides consultation, training, and technical assistance
Departments & Employees
Departments
- Review recommended control measures and implement feasible solutions
- Implement feasible control measures
- Provide employee training and supervision
- Enforce safe work practices within their operations
Employees
- Follow established safe work practices
- Use provided ergonomic equipment and controls
- Report ergonomic concerns and hazards
- Participate in ergonomic evaluations when requested
Hierarchy of Controls
The CSU Ergonomics Program utilizes the hierarchy of controls to reduce ergonomic hazards and physical stressors. Whenever practical, higher-level controls are prioritized because they generally provide more effective and sustainable risk reduction.
The Ergonomics Program prioritizes elimination, engineering controls, and other higher-level solutions whenever feasible.
Ergonomics, Occupational Health, and OSHA Guidance
CSU Occupational Health Framework
The CSU Ergonomics Program supports the University’s Occupational Health Policy and Occupational Health and Safety Program (OHSP) by identifying physical stressors and ergonomic hazards associated with work activities. Ergonomic evaluations are conducted to evaluate ergonomic risk, recommend feasible control measures, and support proactive injury prevention through recognized ergonomic principles and the hierarchy of controls.
The CSU Ergonomics Program is administered by the Office of Risk Management & Insurance and supports the University’s Occupational Health framework through ergonomic evaluations, ergonomic risk assessments, and the recommendation of feasible control measures to reduce ergonomic risk.
National Guidance
Although OSHA does not have a comprehensive ergonomics standard, ergonomic hazards may be addressed under the Occupational Safety and Health Act’s General Duty Clause when recognized hazards exist and feasible methods are available to reduce the associated risk. OSHA has published numerous industry-specific ergonomics guidelines and continues to recognize ergonomics as an important component of workplace safety and health programs.
The CSU Ergonomics Program utilizes nationally recognized ergonomic principles and guidance to help departments identify ergonomic hazards and implement practical, feasible improvements that reduce employee exposure to physical stressors.
Professional Ergonomic Practice
Ergonomic evaluations are performed using established ergonomic principles, current scientific literature, and recognized professional practices. Depending on the work being evaluated, assessments may incorporate methodologies, tools, or guidance from organizations such as OSHA, NIOSH, ANSI, the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society (HFES), and the Board of Certification in Professional Ergonomics (BCPE), as appropriate.
Recommendations are intended to support practical workplace improvements that help reduce ergonomic risk while recognizing operational needs and available resources.
Why Ergonomics Matters
Effective ergonomics programs help:
- Prevent injuries before they occur
- Reduce physical stress and fatigue
- Improve employee comfort and wellbeing
- Improve efficiency and productivity
- Reduce workers’ compensation and injury-related costs
Consistent with CSU Occupational Health Policy and Occupational Health and Safety Program materials, ergonomic hazards and physical stressors should be identified, evaluated, and controlled whenever feasible.