Evaluation and conclusion

Evaluation

Continuous improvement is an important aspect of implementing effective controls. As part of its continuous improvement process, UBC identified buildings where constraints in the layout of stairs limited the ability to use the powered stair climbers. In collaboration with workers, and facilities and carpentry staff, UBC built platforms that allowed the use of powered stair climbers in all their current buildings. While it required a number of trials and modifications, in the end, UBC was able to find an effective solution.

UBC continues to look for opportunities in the design stage of future facilities to enable workers to safely move appliances, and other larger equipment and furniture, in and around buildings.

Part of the evaluation process involves asking workers to provide insight on the effectiveness of the controls. For example:

• Are workers using the control as intended? If not, why not?
• What feedback do workers have on how the control has been implemented (e.g., pros, cons, concerns, improvements)?
• Is the control causing any other hazards or risks?

Evaluating effectiveness of the control should happen after implementation, but should also take place if the job demands, location of work, equipment used, or work process change in any way.

Conclusion

An essential aspect of UBC’s journey to success was the collaboration between the employer and staff throughout the risk management process. This was key to effectively bringing about positive health and safety changes in the way work was done.

The team worked together to develop solutions for layout challenges, implementing modifications like platforms to accommodate various housing designs. This collaborative approach also led to opportunities to expand the use of powered stair climbers in other departments facing similar MSI risks, such as housekeeping staff who move large or bulky furniture through residence complexes.

Overall, the implementation of the powered stair climber improved worker safety and made the job more inclusive for all worker populations.

Visit worksafebc.com to learn more about managing risk and controlling risks.

Read more

• Background
• Risk factor identification and assessment
• Risk factor control
• Evaluation and conclusion
• Hot topics, resources, and events

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For resources, please visit worksafebc.com/ergonomics. If you have questions about ergonomics or human factors, or need help managing the risk of MSI in your workplace, please contact us at HumanFactors@worksafebc.com