Ergonomics & Risk Assessment Officer

The Ergonomics & Risk Assessment Officer coordinates, advises on, and supports the development and revision of MSD prevention and risk management programs, policies, and procedures, ensuring compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulations. The role also applies ergonomics and risk management principles to enhance employee performance and well-being, including ergonomic assessments, workstation design, physical demands analysis, equipment evaluation, and workplace violence risk mitigation to reduce WSIB-related claims.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop policies and procedures for MSD prevention by maintaining knowledge of current trends, practices and related medical issues
• Ensure that all programs and initiatives meet legislative requirements and apply best practice standards
• Develop and implement ergonomic programs to identify and reduce risk of work related musculoskeletal disorders
• Develop and update furniture and equipment acquisitions standards. Maintain statistics, monitor trends, identify needs for interventions, further training, etc.
• Collaborate with key stakeholders to evaluate renovation and new workspace designs
• Conduct ergonomic assessments and Physical Demands Analyses for specified roles
• Investigate MSD-related incidents, hazards, and concerns reported by staff, report findings, and provide employee education on MSD prevention
• Educate and train staff on injury prevention and potential risks, including Lifts and Transfers equipment training
• Collaborate with staff, management, OHSS, and JHSC to identify, assess, and control ergonomic and workplace hazards including violence risks while developing and implementing risk management strategies, guidelines, and in-house assessment tools to improve patient care and ensure staff and client safety in compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act
• Serve as a liaison with external providers as it relates to prevention and management of hazards associated with MSDs and violence

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology, Ergonomics, Physiotherapy or Occupational Therapy
• Registered or eligible for registration with a regulated professional College in Ontario
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in risk management, ergonomic assessment and MSD prevention program development/delivery, preferably in a healthcare setting
• Working knowledge of applicable occupational health and safety legislation: the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act, the Occupational Health & Safety Act and Regulations, WHMIS, Ontario Human Rights Code and other relevant safety legislation
• Knowledge of MSD & workplace violence prevention strategies and best practices in a health care setting to reduce risk factors
• Knowledge of collective agreements and working in a unionized environment
• Ability to establish priorities and meet deadlines
• Demonstrated skills in planning & delivering education/training programs to adults
• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, communication and facilitation skills
• Intermediate computer skills (i.e. Word, Excel, Outlook)
• Ability to deal effectively with internal and external customers
• Ability to work independently and as a member of a team
• Valid drivers license and access to a vehicle required

Language Requirements

• English level A- is mandatory in oral expression, comprehension, reading & writing. Bilingual (French/English) is considered a strong asset