If you are a Minnesota employer, the answer may now be yes! Minnesota is leading a significant shift in workplace safety with a new ergonomics statute effective January 2024. They join Washington, Oregon, Michigan, and California to reduce the impact of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) on productivity. This statute (§182.677) requires Minnesota warehouse distribution centers and meatpacking and poultry processing sites with 100 or more employees, and all health care facilities to develop and implement a comprehensive written ergonomics program.
Why did Minnesota pass this statue? An ergonomics program is an effective way to prevent the risk of MSDs, which are the most prevalent and costly injuries in these industries.
To comply with the statute, companies must have a written ergonomics program that includes:
- Assessments to identify and reduce MSDs risk factors
- Initial and ongoing employee training
- A procedure for early reporting of MSDs
- A process for employees to provide possible solutions to prevent MSDs
- Procedures to ensure physical plant changes and major construction projects are consistent with program goals
- Documented program evaluations whenever a change to the work process occurs and at least annually
In addition to requiring a written ergonomics program, Minnesota also passed the Safe Workplace for Meat and Poultry Processing Workers Act. This act requires meat and poultry processing companies to have their ergonomics programs developed and implemented by a committee that includes a Certified Professional Ergonomist (CPE) or if this is not practical the program must be reviewed by a CPE prior to implementation and annually thereafter.
While developing and implementing a written ergonomics program can seem overwhelming, CMI’s Certified Professional Ergonomists can partner with you each step of the way.
Our extensive experience in preparing and reviewing ergonomics programs, conducting assessments and training employees can make it easier for your company to achieve compliance, protect employees and reduce workers’ compensation costs.
Contact us today to learn more about CMI’s Industrial Ergonomics Consultation Services.
Written by: Ed Havey, M.S., CPE