Quick Start Guideline: General

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Quick Start Guideline Introduction Video

New to the MSD prevention quick start guidelines? This short animated video shows what is included in the quick start guidelines, and provides examples of how they can be used to prevent MSD in your organization today.

Small changes can make a big difference! A workplace free of MSD hazards protects workers now, allows injured workers to return to their jobs more easily, and allows more people to perform those jobs.

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Quick Start Guideline: Mini Posters 

The mini-posters describe six common MSD workplace hazards. Please see Work and MSD Hazards for a more complete description of MSD hazards.

Employers are responsible for taking every precaution reasonable in the circumstances for the protection of a worker under the Ontario Occupational Health and Safety Act. This includes improving the workplace and implementing measures to protect workers from all hazards, including those related to musculoskeletal disorders.

How to use the posters?

• Use the posters as guides during workplace walkthroughs and inspections. On the back of the poster, write observations and ideas about possible fixes for hazards.
• Use the posters as a script to aid workers, supervisors and others during safety or toolbox talks. Use the discussion to brainstorm possible fixes.
• Use the posters in the lunchroom or on the Health & Safety board to alert workers to potential MSD hazards in their work and their relationship to pain and discomfort.
• As a reminder to keep looking for improvements!

Each poster describes a common workplace hazard that can lead to an MSD. It also gives ideas on how to fix it. MSD hazards can be found in all sizes of workplaces and in all sectors. You may recognize some or all six hazards in your workplace. This tells you that your workplace needs a plan for MSD prevention action. 

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What do the colours mean?

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Making a start

Starting is the most important part of reducing back pain, shoulder tendinitis, tennis elbow and other Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSD). This package will give you a good start. Some of the ideas may seem very simple, but you can substantially reduce MSD hazards by applying these ideas throughout your workplace (and at home).

The mini-posters give you the general idea behind the solution. For example, store it off the floor shows how to store objects. It’s the same rule for storing boxes in an office, moving parts in manufacturing, or setting up stands and work surfaces for heavy tasks in construction.

Actions

• Jump straight in. Start using these posters in your workplace inspections and toolbox talks and make changes to remove or reduce any hazards identified.
• Follow the 10 steps for a more systematic approach.

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