Why Every Workplace Needs an OHS Ergonomics Workstation Assessment

In today’s modern work environment, where employees spend long hours at desks, behind screens, or engaged in repetitive tasks, workplace health and safety is more important than ever. While most businesses are aware of the need for general Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) practices, many overlook one of the most effective strategies to improve employee wellbeing and productivity: the OHS ergonomics workstation assessment.

Whether your team is based in an office, working remotely, or spread across hybrid setups, ergonomic workstation assessments are a key component in preventing injuries, reducing absenteeism, and ensuring compliance with workplace safety regulations. Here’s why every Australian workplace should prioritise these assessments — and how Ergoworks Consulting can help you get started.

What Is an OHS Ergonomics Workstation Assessment?

An OHS ergonomics workstation assessment is a professional evaluation of an employee’s work environment, specifically designed to ensure it supports optimal posture, movement, and comfort. This assessment takes into account a variety of physical, environmental, and task-related factors including desk height, chair support, monitor placement, keyboard and mouse position, lighting, and more.

The goal? To identify risk factors that may lead to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), fatigue, or long-term injuries — and to provide practical, evidence-based recommendations for improvement.

The True Cost of Poor Ergonomics

Poor ergonomic setups are more than just uncomfortable — they can be costly. According to Safe Work Australia, work-related musculoskeletal disorders are among the most common injuries, leading to time off work and significant compensation claims. These injuries are often preventable, making the case for proactive ergonomics assessments even stronger.

Some of the most common problems caused by poor ergonomics include:

• Neck and back pain
  
• Repetitive strain injuries (RSIs)
  
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
  
• Eye strain and headaches
  
• General fatigue and low productivity
  

Left unaddressed, these issues can lead to lost workdays, reduced morale, and higher employee turnover.

The Benefits of an OHS Ergonomics Workstation Assessment

Investing in an ergonomic assessment isn’t just about ticking a compliance box — it’s a smart business decision with wide-reaching benefits.

1. Improved Employee Health and Comfort

A well-designed workstation promotes better posture, reduces physical strain, and can help prevent chronic pain. Healthier employees are not only happier but are more engaged and productive in their roles.

2. Reduced Workplace Injuries

An ergonomics assessment identifies potential hazards before they become injuries. This proactive approach reduces the likelihood of OHS incidents and compensation claims.

3. Increased Productivity and Performance

When workers are comfortable and supported, they can focus better and work more efficiently. Small ergonomic adjustments often result in significant performance improvements.

4. Support for Remote and Hybrid Workers

With many Australians now working from home at least part of the week, ensuring home workstations are ergonomically sound is just as important as office-based assessments.

5. Compliance with OHS Regulations

Under Australian law, employers have a legal duty to provide a safe work environment — and that includes ergonomics. A professional OHS ergonomics workstation assessment helps businesses meet these legal obligations.

When Should You Book an Assessment?

There’s never a wrong time to schedule an ergonomic assessment, but certain situations make it especially critical:

• When onboarding new employees
  
• After moving to a new office or workspace
  
• Following employee complaints of pain or discomfort
  
• During a workplace wellness initiative
  
• When staff are working remotely long-term
  
• As part of a risk management plan for compliance

Don’t Wait for Injuries to Happen

Too often, businesses only act after an employee reports pain or files a claim. But prevention is far more effective — and affordable — than treatment. An OHS ergonomics workstation assessment is a proactive investment in your team’s health and your business’s long-term success.

Whether you’re managing a corporate office, overseeing a distributed remote team, or running a busy healthcare clinic, ergonomic safety should be part of your workplace culture.

Ready to Get Started?

Don’t leave workplace health and comfort to chance. Ergoworks Consulting is here to support your business with professional ergonomic assessments tailored to your unique needs.

To book an OHS ergonomics workstation assessment or learn more about our services, contact us today. We’re ready to help you create a safer, healthier, and more productive work environment — wherever your team works.