How often should a workplace assessment for ergonomic hazards be conducted?

Conducting a workplace assessment for ergonomic hazards "as needed when issues arise" allows for a proactive and responsive approach to identifying and mitigating risks that may not be present on a regular schedule. This option emphasizes the importance of addressing ergonomic concerns promptly when they become apparent, such as when new equipment is introduced, work processes change, or employees report discomfort or injury. This approach can lead to immediate interventions that improve worker safety and comfort.

Annual or biennial assessments may fail to capture emerging issues or changes in the workplace environment that could contribute to ergonomic hazards, potentially leading to undetected problems over time. Regular weekly assessments could be excessive and resource-consuming without providing substantial benefits, especially in stable work environments. As a result, assessing ergonomics "as needed" aligns more closely with the dynamic nature of many workplaces and the necessity to adapt assessments based on current conditions and employee feedback.