Step 1: Build Commitment

This is Step 1 of a six-step approach to preventing musculoskeletal injuries (MSIs). Each step builds on the one before it to help employers identify hazards, assess risks, implement controls, and create safer workplaces.

This step focuses on building the foundation for an effective MSI prevention program through leadership commitment, clear policies, defined responsibilities, and adequate resources.

Demonstrate leadership commitment

Management commitment is a key element of a successful MSI prevention strategy. Without leadership support, it can be difficult to dedicate the time, resources, and attention needed to identify hazards and reduce risks.

Leaders play an important role in setting expectations and ensuring MSI prevention is part of the organization's overall approach to workplace health and safety.

Understand your legal responsibilities

MSI prevention should be incorporated into your organization's occupational health and safety (OHS) program.

To support a safe workplace, employers should:

• Understand the occupational health and safety legislation and requirements that apply to their workplace
• Incorporate MSI prevention into workplace policies and programs
• Ensure policies and procedures reflect applicable legal requirements

Develop an MSI prevention policy

A written policy helps communicate your organization's commitment to preventing musculoskeletal injuries and supporting worker health and safety. It also helps set expectations and demonstrate that MSI prevention is a workplace priority.

Your policy should:

• Include a commitment to preventing MSIs
• Explain your organization's approach to managing MSI risks
• Support worker health, safety, and well-being
• Be communicated to workers and other stakeholders

Define responsibilities and provide resources

Successful MSI prevention requires clear accountability and adequate resources.

Important actions:

• Define roles and responsibilities for MSI prevention 
• Involve the Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committee (JOHSC) or Health and Safety Representative 
• Identify the person or people responsible for coordinating MSI prevention efforts 
• Provide the time, funding, training, and support needed to implement and maintain prevention activities

Key performance indicators

• Written MSI prevention policy is in place, current, and communicated to workers
• MSI prevention roles and responsibilities are clearly defined and assigned
• Budget and staff time allocated to MSI prevention activities
• Management participation in safety walkthroughs and JOHSC meetings
• Percentage of worker MSI reports that receive a documented response within the established timeframe