Ergonomics Codes of Practice: The Challenge of Implementation in Canadian Workplaces

Despite a reduction in the workplace injury rate for most industries in Canada, the number of compensation claims for the Canadian Forest Industry is not declining at a comparable rate. While mechanisation, particularly of tree harvesting operations, has improved injury rates in the last 5 to 7 years, the forest industry, along with similar labour-intensive industries such as mining, construction, and agriculture, continue to have unacceptable health and safety records. This review of ergonomics codes of practice focuses on the issue of implementation, as perceived by the three major stakeholders, management, employees and their unions, and government. Barriers to implementation and successful programs are discussed, as is the use of Benefit/Cost analysis as one measure of success. Three examples of successful ergonomic interventions in Canadian forestry, manufacturing, and healthcare are detailed to illustrate the effective use of Benefit/Cost analysis as a measurement tool, and as the potential path to the implementation of universal codes of practice.