In 2025, Safety and EHS professionals are expected to go beyond compliance by applying a risk-based approach to occupational health, particularly in the prevention of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). One critical yet often overlooked component is understanding an organization’s risk appetite as it relates to ergonomic hazard risk analysis and mitigation.
What Is Risk Appetite?
According to the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP, 2024), risk appetite refers to the level of risk an organization is willing to accept in pursuit of its goals. In ergonomics and injury prevention, this translates to how much exposure to ergonomic hazards an organization deems acceptable, knowingly or unknowingly, while maintaining productivity and operational performance.
Risk is defined as the effect of uncertainty on objectives, particularly deviations from expected outcomes (Straub, F., 2025). Risk sources, alone or in combination, are elements that can result in physical injury or the development of an MSD.
Organizations often differentiate their overall safety risk appetite from specific risk appetites for sub-domains such as ergonomics, machine safety, or chemical exposure. These micro-level distinctions enable precise, data-driven decisions and tailored interventions.
"Risk management and aligned risk appetites reduce risk. This may be a paradigm shift for most U.S. businesses, but it is indubitably worth the effort." - ASSP 2024
A Structured Approach to Ergonomic Hazard Risk Analysis
To assess and reduce ergonomic hazards, a systematic risk analysis process is vital. Here's how it's done:
Step 1: Hazard Identification
Ergonomic hazards are identified across workstations, material handling tasks, and high-repetition zones, particularly in manufacturing, warehousing, and healthcare environments.
Step 2: Risk Assessment
Each hazard is assessed for:
- Severity of potential injury
- Frequency of exposure
- Likelihood of occurrence
- Number of employees exposed
Step 3: Risk Scoring
Using a risk matrix, each hazard receives a composite score based on the above metrics. This allows comparison and prioritization.
Step 4: Risk Ranking
All identified hazards are ranked from highest to lowest risk, enabling EHS leaders to focus on critical exposures first.
Step 5: Mitigation Strategies
Both short-term (quick fixes, training) and long-term (equipment upgrades, workstation redesign) solutions are proposed for each hazard.
Step 6: Residual Risk Evaluation
If the proposed solutions are implemented, residual risk scores are recalculated to determine how effectively the risk will be reduced, ideally to ALARP (As Low As Reasonably Practicable).
Aligning Risk Appetite with Mitigation Strategy
Once the ergonomic risk analysis report is complete, EHS leaders can present a strategic plan to senior management. This enables decision-makers to:
- Clearly understand the initial and residual risk scores
- Define their organization’s true risk appetite
- Balance risk vs. cost vs. productivity
- Prioritize ergonomic investment aligned with both safety and business goals
Data-driven evidence and best practice ergonomics offer decision-makers far more insight than regulatory compliance alone. Research shows that proactive ergonomic risk reduction strategies outperform regulatory minimums in reducing recordables and improving workforce morale (Straub, F., 2025).
Why DORN?
DORN-certified ergonomists specialize in comprehensive ergonomic and safety assessments using a blend of qualitative and quantitative tools, including next-generation AI-based Risk Detect software. These tools ensure high accuracy, reliability, and actionable insight.
DORN’s deliverables include:
- A detailed ergonomic hazard analysis report
- Ranked hazard risk scores
- Short- and long-term mitigation plans with projected residual risk
- Tailored intervention strategies
We also offer:
- Ergonomic equipment selection support
- Implementation assistance
- Employee training
- Follow-up assessments to ensure long-term success
Final Thought
Understanding your organizational risk appetite and aligning it with a data-driven ergonomic strategy is the future of injury prevention. With DORN’s proven process, which includes thorough ergonomic hazard risk analysis, your company can reduce injuries, lower costs, and build a safer, more productive workforce in 2025 and beyond.
In conclusion, organizations that prioritize understanding their ergonomic hazard risk analysis and align it with their risk appetite will not only foster a safer work environment but will also enhance overall productivity and employee satisfaction. As ergonomic standards evolve, staying proactive and informed will be key to maintaining a competitive edge in the marketplace.
