Change in legislation surrounding ergonomics
What you need to know
by Sam Sleegers
The authority on ergonomics
On Jan. 12, 2024, the High Council for Prevention and Protection at Work gave its opinion on a draft for a Royal Decree to amend Book VIII of the Codex on well-being at work.
The purpose of the draft of the Royal Decree is to create a complete legal framework for the prevention of musculoskeletal disorders.
Table of contents
What will change specifically?
To clarify, the new legislation defines 4 concepts that will form the basis:
- ergonomics,
- the prevention advisor-ergonomist,
- musculoskeletal disorders,
- musculoskeletal risks at work.
These definitions are added to Art. I.1-4 of the Codex.
Addition of new title and change of structure to book VIII
Title 4. The new Title 1 will contain general provisions on the prevention of musculoskeletal disorders at work and consists of 3 chapters.
Risk analysis and prevention measures
The first chapter is devoted to risk analysis and prevention measures. Attention to ergonomics is required with any new workstation or workstation design. In doing so, as an employer, you must conduct a musculoskeletal risk analysis based on a non-exhaustive list of 6 risk factors:
- the use of excessive force,
- repeated repetitive movements,
- the task duration,
- working postures,
- working movements,
- power of contact.
The employer always consults the internal prevention advisor in the risk analysis and, in complex cases, the prevention advisor-ergonomist. Employees must participate in the risk assessment.
The risk analysis should be updated regularly, the results included in the overall prevention plan or annual action plan.
Information
The second chapter requires employees and committee members to be informed and trained on musculoskeletal risks at work, prevention measures, ergonomic work methods and health surveillance.
Health Surveillance
The third chapter deals with health surveillance of employees under the rules of Book I, Title 4, with modified designation of specific risks for musculoskeletal hazards at work, in line with the new philosophy of Book VIII, Title 1 and its definitions.
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