Ergonomics & musculoskeletal health Risk Assessment Template

Typical hazards & measures

• Pinch grip and thumb strain in nail services — Choose wider brush handles and padded rests; float the wrist with forearm support; place jars within easy reach; schedule micro-stretches each hand; rotate intricate art with simpler steps; record discomfort patterns to refine future setups.
• Tool weight and balance mismatch — Trial tools before purchase; set maximum weights for dryers, clippers and shears; issue multiple handle sizes and grip options; check balance points quarterly; retire tools that pull the wrist into extension or require excessive force.
• Overreach from poor station layout — Keep trolleys within 30 to 40 centimetres of the dominant hand; store essentials between shoulder and hip height; face frequently used items toward the working hand; run quarterly layout audits with quick fixes logged and verified.
• Cold hands and reduced dexterity — Keep room at a steady working temperature; take brief warm-water hand breaks; use thin thermal liners under nitrile where safe; dry thoroughly before gloving; rotate tasks that demand fine motor control to the warmest part of the shift.
• Seated posture for nail and PMU technicians — Use saddle stools with lumbar support; keep hips slightly above knees and feet flat; set table height to relaxed elbows; bring the client toward you rather than reaching; build 60-second posture breaks into colour cures and lamp cycles.