Most musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), also called repetitive strain injuries (RSIs), begin at work damaging muscles, tendons, and nerves usually over time.
Simple actions we perform every day, such as gripping, holding, bending, twisting, clenching, and reaching, are typically harmless during our regular routines. However, when these movements are repeated constantly in a work setting, they can become debilitating. Additional work-related factors that can increase the danger include awkward body positions, force focused on small areas like the hands or wrists, exposure to vibrations, a rapid work pace with little time to rest, and mental stress.
Managing MSD/RSI-related hazards in the workplace is not only a best practice but also a legal obligation. Employers are required to take every reasonable precaution to protect the health and safety of their workforce. Most work-related MSDs can be prevented proactively by implementing an action plan that includes education and training. Training aimed at identifying, assessing and reducing/eliminating ergonomic hazards is a simple yet cost-effective measure – especially given that MSDs account for more than 30 per cent of all accepted lost-time compensation claims, according to the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB).
Now until February 28, all Workers Health & Safety Centre (WHSC) ergonomics training courses are $40 per person per course (whether taken virtually, in-person or onsite), representing a savings of up to $80 per registrant. Whether your work is in an office, healthcare, education or construction and trades we’ve got training for you.
Choose from our suite of ergonomics courses:
- Ergonomic Toolbox (3 hours, virtual or in-person)
This three-hour session gives participants practical, ready-to-use tools for spotting and solving ergonomic hazards in their own workplaces. It’s ideal for joint health and safety committee (JHSC) members, reps, supervisors and workers who want concrete strategies they can apply right away.
- Ergonomics and MSDs (3 hours, virtual or in-person)
In this three-hour program, participants learn what MSDs are, how they develop and how poor work design contributes to these injuries. The focus is on helping JHSCs and others recognize, assess and control MSD risks before workers are seriously hurt.
- Ergonomics in Health Care and Social Services (3 hours, virtual)
Designed specifically for health care and social service settings, this three-hour program looks at the unique ergonomic risk factors in these sectors. Participants learn how to identify hazardous tasks that cause awkward postures, force and repetition, and explore prevention strategies supported by sector-specific tools and resources.
- Ergonomics: Applying Prevention Principles at Work (1 day, virtual)
This full-day program builds on Ergonomics: Basic Principles and is aimed at those taking a more hands-on role in MSD prevention. Participants dig deeper into the science and legislation behind ergonomics and practice using assessment tools to design safer work.
- Ergonomics: Basic Principles (1 day, virtual or in-person)
Over a full day, participants learn how everyday job tasks can harm the musculoskeletal system, and what practical changes can prevent that harm. The program is designed to empower workers, reps and supervisors to identify MSD hazards and recommend effective ergonomic solutions.
- Hand Tools (3 hours, virtual)
This three-hour program links the design and use of hand tools to common MSD injuries. Participants learn how to spot tool-related hazards, apply relevant standards and develop an action plan to reduce risk factors—an essential step anywhere hand tools are used. (Also available in French.)
- Manual Material Handling (3 hours, virtual)
In this three-hour session, participants explore hazards of lifting, carrying and other manual handling tasks and review guidelines such as the NIOSH lifting equation. They leave with practical strategies for safer work design, mechanical aids and other controls to protect workers. (Also available in French.)
- Patient Handling (3 hours, virtual)
This three-hour program focuses on the lifting, transferring and repositioning tasks that drive MSD rates among health care workers. Participants learn how to assess patient handling hazards, understand relevant legislation and support strong prevention policies and programs in their workplaces.
- Work Organization (3 hours, virtual)
Over three hours, this program looks at how scheduling, workload, technology and pace of work affect worker health and MSD risk factors. Participants learn to recognize harmful work organisation patterns and explore practical measures—like job rotation and improved scheduling—that support healthier, safer work.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Pain-free work is possible.
REGISTER NOW
Looking to expand your health and safety training?
Discover our full Training Catalogue, featuring programs that cover a broad spectrum of workplace hazards and regulatory responsibilities. Connect with one of our Training Services Representatives located across Ontario, and don’t forget to ask about preferred pricing for larger groups and onsite training.
Need training in French?
We discounted French ergonomics training too, have scheduled other key health and safety courses like JHSC Certification and Working at Heights in French, and offer Ontario’s largest French catalogue of instructor-led training ready for onsite booking. For more information, contact WHSC Training Services Representative, Christopher Gervais at cgervais@whsc.on.ca or 613-407-2187.
Need more information?
Download and share our discounted Ergonomics Training flyer.
Contact a WHSC Training Services Representative in your area.
Email: contactus@whsc.on.ca
Visit: whsc.on.ca
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