Health and Safety A-Z
Topic: Ergonomics
Every person is unique. We have different builds, different strengths, levels of endurance, experience, and knowledge. While one person might be able to do a certain task for years without injury, another might be hurt trying to do the same task even once.
Ergonomics, or the science of matching the job to the worker and reducing cognitive and physical demands, is important because we are all different. By providing tools, equipment and other support that meet the needs of the individual, the risk of injury or musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) can be greatly reduced. MSD is a term referring to discomfort or injuries to the human musculoskeletal system, including joints, ligaments, muscles, nerves, and tendons. Common examples of MSDs include carpal tunnel syndrome or epicondylitis (tennis elbow).
Good ergonomics is an important part of a musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) prevention program. Click to view Trent University's complete Ergonomic Program and Procedure.
Ergonomics Training and Resources
Visit this page to learn about available Ergonomics training at Trent and access other helpful information and resources.
Basics of Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs)
Visit this page to learn about the main risks and hazards contributing to MSDs.
Laboratory Ergonomics
Visit this page to learn about ergonomic risk factors commonly associated with lab work and the design of common workstations.
Office Ergonomics
Office workstation setup is a topic that often comes first to mind when considering ergonomics. Visit this page to learn more about setting up your office and home workstation.
Manual Materials Handling (MMH)
Information on tasks that involve lifting, lowering, pushing, pulling, carrying, holding, or otherwise handling things.
Telework / Working Remotely / Working from Home
Telework ergonomics focuses on setting up safe, comfortable, and efficient home or remote workstations to reduce strain, prevent injury, and support productivity.
Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS)
HAVS is a condition caused by regular, long-term exposure to vibrating tools and equipment which may damage vasculature and soft tissue in the hands and arms.
Ergonomic Assessments
The Health and Safety Office offers in-house ergonomic assessments for individuals that are experiencing discomfort and/or have concerns with their workstation, equipment, or tasks. A member of the Health and Safety team will meet with you to discuss concerns, make adjustments, and provide recommendations for additional controls. A written report summarizing the assessment, recommendations, and next steps will be provided to the worker and supervisor.
If you are experiencing discomfort, have specific concerns, or are having difficulty identifying and controlling risk factors, please first report the issues to your supervisor and explore resources available on this page. To request an ergonomic assessment, please complete the request form here: Ergonomic Assessment Request.
Assessments should not be used as an avenue to gain new furniture/equipment based on personal preferences or aesthetics. Purchasing new furniture/equipment is done at the discretion of your supervisor.
The Health and Safety Office will review the request and reach out with next steps. Please note that should demand and availability issues arise, Health and Safety will triage requests based on risk and may refer low-risk cases to other training and resource material.
Additional resources:
Ergonomics in the workplace: understanding the law
MSD Prevention Guideline for Ontario
Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety, OSH Answer
Last Revised: October 14, 2025 