This resource is designed to provide
guidance in completing a simple
workstation assessment to ensure the
workstation fits an individual’s needs.
It has two sections: a Checklist and
Summary of Recommendations. You
may complete the checklist on your
own, or with assistance from someone
within the organization who has
knowledge/training on conducting
computer workstation assessments.
Use this resource to record your findings
if needed. Issues and concerns identified
should be addressed as promptly
as possible to minimize the risk of
musculoskeletal injury (MSI). If you are
unable to resolve the identified issues,
speak to your immediate supervisor for
further assistance.
Computer
Workstation
Assessment
Resource
CHECKLIST: The checklist is divided into four sections
(Seating, Input Devices, Monitor, and Work Area), which
have been colour coded to match the diagram on pg 2. If
follow-up is required, use space provided to make notes and
discuss recommendations with your supervisor. Below is a sample:
Seating
Checklist Items
Y/N
If no, consider
the following
Follow-up Notes
Chair features
Know adjustment
features on chair
No
Request training on
using chair features
Meet with my supervisor to discuss
training
RECORD FINDINGS IF NEEDED: Summarize all findings in the
Summary of Recommendations table provided at the end of
this resource after completing the checklist. Below is a sample:
Checklist Item Recognized
as a Concern
Description
Actions Taken/ Required for Follow-up
Chair features
Unfamiliar with chair features
Met with my supervisor to discuss training on using chair
features.
This document has been produced by the Occupational Health and Safety Agency for Healthcare in BC.
#301 - 1195 W. Broadway Ave, Vancouver, BC V6H 3X5 | T: 778.328.8000 | F: 778.328.8001 | www.ohsah.bc.ca
OHSAH’s Computer Workstation
Assessment Resource
Monitor
Work Area
Seating
Input Devices
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OHSAH’s Computer Workstation Assessment Resource
Checklist
Seating
Employee
Assessor
Assessment Date
Follow-up Date
Checklist Items
Chair features
Know adjustment
features on chair
Height
Feet flat, knees at 90º
Seat pan
Level
Backrest
• Angle 90º-110º
• Curved area supports small
of back
Arm rests
Shoulders relaxed, elbows
rest comfortably
Input
Devices
Keyboard
Mouse
Monitor
Checklist Items
Y/N
If No, Consider the Following
Request training on using chair
features
• Raise or lower chair height
• Use a footrest if needed
Adjust the angle of the tilt
• Adjust the backrest angle
• Adjust the height of the
backrest or lumbar support
Lower/raise the height of the
armrests, or remove armrests
Y/N
• Elbow angle at 90° - 110°
• Wrists are level & straight
• Upper arms hang relaxed
at sides
If No, Consider the Following
Install long platform keyboard
tray (minimum 27”)
• Minimal arm reaching
forward and sideways
Alternate hands for mouse use
Y/ N
If No, Consider the Following
Height
Line of sight level with top
of screen
Raise or lower monitor height
Distance
Minimum arm’s length away
(depending on visual needs)
Adjust distance between monitor
and seating location
Centred
With midline of body
Align keyboard and monitor
• Screen is vertical
• No glare from window
or overhead lights
• Adjust screen angle
• Place monitor and chair at 90°
angles to window
• Close blinds
Refresh rate is at 75 Hz
(minimum)
Reset refresh rate
Go to Control Panel - Display Settings - Advanced Monitor
Tilt
Flickers
Follow-up Notes
• Raise/lower keyboard tray height
• Adjust tilt of tray
• Sit close to keyboard tray
Level with keyboard
Checklist Items
Follow-up Notes
Follow-up Notes
Work Area
Checklist Items
Y/N
If No, Consider the Following
Documents
Paper-based materials
located directly in front
of monitor
Use document holder/stand
Desk
Legs move freely
underneath
Eliminate clutter
(e.g. trash bin, file cabinet)
Reaches
Position frequently-used
items close to seated area
Rearrange desktop to minimize
length of reach
Follow-up Notes
OHSAH’s Computer Workstation Assessment Resource | 3
Summary of
Recommendations
Checklist Item
Recognized as
a Concern
Description
Actions Taken/ Required for Follow-up
For more resources on office ergonomics, refer to the following sites:
How to Make Your Computer Workstation Fit You:
www.worksafebc.com/publications/health_and_safety/by_topic/assets/pdf/comptr_wrkstn.pdf
Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety:
www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/ergonomics/office/
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OHSAH’s Computer Workstation Assessment Resource