Click here to proceed directly to the checklist (PDF) or read on if you have not used this checklist before.
1. Purpose
Using the checklist, a reviewer (e.g. employee’s manager or other designated person) will be able to ensure that:
- an employee is aware of required and optional learning resources
- an employee knows how to adjust their workstation
- some common ergonomics problems are addressed
The checklist can be used proactively (e.g. with new employees) or reactively (e.g. when an employee reports discomfort to you.)
NOTE: If the checklist is being considered for reported discomfort, the checklist will help with identifying the problem and possible solutions. If you already have a good idea of what the problem and solution might be AND the solution is relatively easy to test, it is ok to try that first before proceeding with the checklist.
Click here to learn more about the rationale for this checklist and possible choices for reviewers.
2. Instructions for Reviewers
When you are scheduling a time to meet with the employee, ask them to review this page prior to your meeting.
For new employees, return the checklist to OHS so that it can be placed in the employee’s central file.
If you cannot address any deficiencies found, you must initiate action to address any deficiencies. This may involve reporting the deficiency to the employee’s manager (if you are not their manager) or a more senior manager for action.
If the deficiency is that the employee does not know how to perform a specific adjustment, possible follow up actions are referral to:
- The learning resources in Section 4.1. Links from Checklist below
- A nearby co-worker who has the same style of chair or desk
- Your department’s Facilities Manager/Coordinator (or IT personnel for monitor related questions)
- Your department’s Health and Safety Officer
- The University’s Furnishings Coordinator/Assistant(s)
- The University’s Ergonomist
By following the instructions on this page and on the checklist, you do not have to have any other ergonomics knowledge to complete the checklist.
3. Instructions for Employees and Reviewers
Reviewers and employees can learn more about this topic by attending:
4. Instructions for Employees
To help prepare for your meeting, review the information on this page and try completing the checklist on your own (if possible, at least 24 hours in advance of your meeting). At the meeting, the reviewer will ask you to demonstrate all the adjustments and complete their own copy. If you are experiencing discomfort, there are additional checklists that may also be helpful to do ahead of time (see Section 4.2. Discomfort below).
4.1. Links from checklist
- Chair Operating Instructions
- Keyboard Platform Operating Instructions
- Computer-User Injury Awareness Independent Learning Module and Quiz
- Technical Skills Development (HR Learning and Training Services)
- See Section 4.2 for additional links for employees experiencing discomfort
4.2. Discomfort
If you are experiencing discomfort, Computer User MSD Prevention Checklist: Reference Material will help you identify possible causes and solutions.
Click here for a printable version of the Computer User MSD Prevention Checklist and Musculoskeletal Discomfort Description (PDF) that you could complete in advance of your meeting.
An overview of how assistance is provided to employees is available here:
5. Computer Workstation Checklist
For more information, contact your Area Health and Safety Officer, Mike Papakyriakou (x33477 or 416-736-5491) or check yorku.ca/ergo.