Ergonomics And Design-Related Risks In Vehicles And Workplaces

The risk

Transport work often involves repetitive movements, manual handling, static postures and prolonged periods operating vehicles, machinery or equipment – all presenting risks to worker health.  When procurement and operational decisions prioritise cost efficiency, speed or productivity, ergonomic factors are often overlooked, contributing to musculoskeletal disorders, chronic pain and cumulative physical injury.

Because workers typically have limited influence over procurement as well as vehicle, machinery or equipment design or work processes, ergonomic risks become embedded in everyday work. Poorly designed cabins, controls, seating, loading systems and workplace layouts can expose workers to long-term injury risks across all transport modes, particularly where work intensity and time pressures limit opportunities for recovery.


 

What companies and supply chain actors must do

Companies and supply chain actors must address ergonomic risks in their supply chains.

This requires companies to ensure procurement standards, including around vehicle, machinery and equipment design, and that workplace organisation systematically prioritises ergonomic safety and reduces repetitive strain and manual handling risks. This must include consulting workers and their trade union representatives to identify ergonomic and design-related hazards and integrate worker experience into risk assessments and operational planning in order to prevent and mitigate risks.

Companies and supply chain actors must review these risks including when new technologies, equipment or systems are introduced and ensure that commercial arrangements do not incentivise the use of poorly designed or inadequate equipment further down the supply chain.