Hair & Beauty
Ergonomics & Musculoskeletal Health Risk Assessment Template
The complete guide to protecting salon professionals from repetitive strain and postural injuries.
Free to use Instant PDF download Updated February 2026
Protecting your body while you work
Salon professionals perform repetitive movements for hours—cutting, styling, blow-drying, and detailed close work. Without proper ergonomic practices, these activities lead to chronic pain in the back, neck, shoulders, and wrists.
This guide covers posture optimisation, workstation setup, tool selection, and break scheduling to support long-term musculoskeletal health.
Personal Services
Personal Services
Activity Benefits
Why ergonomics matters
Staff Wellbeing
Supports staff well-being by reducing physical strain.
Posture Awareness
Promotes correct posture and body mechanics awareness.
Better Equipment
Encourages investment in ergonomic tools and furniture.
Job Satisfaction
Improves job satisfaction by preventing discomfort.
Risk Identification
Key hazards & control measures
Prolonged StandingHigh Risk
Potential Harm
Fatigue, muscle stiffness, varicose veins, and back pain from static standing loads.
Control Measures
- Anti-fatigue mats provided
- Regular breaks scheduled
- Supportive footwear worn
- Varied tasks throughout day
Wrist StrainHigh Risk
Potential Harm
Repetitive strain injuries and tendonitis from wrist deviation with scissors and clippers.
Control Measures
- Ergonomic tools selected
- Correct cutting technique trained
- Regular stretching breaks
- Tool maintenance current
Neck FlexionMedium Risk
Potential Harm
Neck strain, eye fatigue, and headaches from sustained neck flexion during lash and brow work.
Control Measures
- Adjustable bed/chair heights
- Magnification lamps used
- Neck stretches encouraged
- Service time limits set
Poor SeatingMedium Risk
Potential Harm
Lower back pain and hip stiffness from poor seated posture for nail and PMU technicians.
Control Measures
- Adjustable stools provided
- Back support available
- Regular position changes
- Footrests available
This guide covers the most common hazards. Our risk assessment wizard includes 20 hazards and 20+ control measures for Ergonomics & Musculoskeletal Health, sourced from industry guidance — create your assessment in minutes.
Safety Checklist
Ergonomics checklist
Workstation
- Heights adjustable
- Tools within easy reach
- Good lighting
- Anti-fatigue mats
Equipment
- Ergonomic tools
- Balanced weight
- Sharp blades
- Low vibration
Breaks
- Regular breaks scheduled
- Stretch breaks taken
- Tasks varied
- Seated rest available
Posture
- Training provided
- Neutral positions taught
- Overreaching avoided
- Symptoms reported
Ready to create your ergonomics risk assessment?
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