Step 4: Implement Controls
This is Step 4 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 selecting and implementing controls to eliminate hazards or reduce workers' exposure to them.
Choose the most effective controls
Once you've identified hazards and assessed their risks, the next step is to put controls in place.
Effective controls address the root causes of hazards. The most effective solution is to eliminate the hazard entirely. When that isn't possible, other controls can be used alone or in combination to reduce risk.
The Hierarchy of Controls can help you select the most effective approach.
| Control | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Elimination | Remove the ergonomic hazard. This is the most effective control. | Eliminate manual handling by piping liquids from a supply line instead of carrying barrels. |
| Substitution | Replace the hazard with a safer alternative. | Work with suppliers to receive materials in smaller, lighter loads. |
| Engineering Controls | Use tools, equipment, or devices to isolate workers from the hazard. | Use a mechanical hoist, pallet jack, or conveyor to reduce manual lifting. |
| Administrative Controls | Change how work is performed to reduce exposure. | Rotate job tasks so workers use different muscle groups or schedule regular breaks. |
| Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) | Protect workers as a last resort. PPE alone is not sufficient. | Anti-vibration gloves for power tool use or knee pads for kneeling tasks. |
Case studies
These examples show how employers used the Hierarchy of Controls to address ergonomic hazards and reduce MSI risks in their workplaces.
Case study: Layering controls at a cabinet company
Workers were required to handle heavy stone countertops, creating high-force and awkward-posture hazards.
The employer assessed the hazards with workers and tested different solutions. The final approach combined two levels of controls:
- Engineering control: A stone lifter that automatically locked when carrying a load. Workers reported it was safer than lifters that required them to squeeze into a tight space to release a latch.
- Administrative control: Installations were planned in advance to reduce time pressure and handling frequency.
The result: Greater efficiency, fewer injuries, and savings that exceeded the cost of the equipment.
Case study: An inexpensive solution in a garden nursery
A worker repeatedly moved products by hand between conveyor lines and began experiencing wrist discomfort.
The worker reported the issue to their supervisor. The manager worked with the worker and team to identify possible solutions.
- Engineering control: Together, they designed a foot pedal that eliminated the need to pull products by hand. The solution was inexpensive and removed the ergonomic hazard entirely.
Key takeaway: Workers who perform the job often have valuable ideas for improving safety. Involving them early can lead to practical and effective solutions.
Tips for success
- Identify the root cause of the hazard before selecting a control
- Test proposed controls with workers before full implementation
- Consider whether a control could introduce new hazards
- Assess costs, practicality, and timelines before implementation
- Consider how changes may affect other tasks in the workflow
- Address ergonomic hazards during the design and purchasing stage whenever possible
Learn more
Explore industry tip sheets for information on control measures for common MSI risk factors and workplace hazards
Involving workers
Workers can play an important role in selecting and implementing controls.
- Involve workers in selecting control measures. Solutions they help design are more likely to be used correctly and consistently.
- Test controls with a representative group of workers before full implementation and gather feedback.
- Inform affected workers about upcoming changes before they are implemented.
- Establish a process for workers to report concerns about controls after they are in place.
- Recognize and acknowledge workers who identify effective control solutions.
Key performance indicators
- Number of controls implemented
- Percentage of high-risk jobs and tasks with controls in place
- Percentage of medium-risk jobs and tasks with controls in place
- Percentage of jobs now assessed as low risk following implementation of controls
Ready for the next step?
Once controls are in place, the next step is to ensure workers understand how to use them and have the knowledge they need to work safely.