MN2603
ASSIGNMENT 3 2026
DUE: 1 SEPT 2026
SEMESTER 2 2026
,MNO2603 ASSIGNMENT 3 2026
DUE 1 SEPT 2026
SECTION B: CASE STUDY
QUESTION 1
Analyse the ergonomic risk factors identified by safety regulation specialists and
explain how each of these factors may contribute to workplace injuries or
reduced employee well-being.
In December 2019, South Africa introduced new ergonomic regulations under the
Occupational Health and Safety Act. This made the country one of the first in the world
to specifically regulate ergonomics in the workplace (Nkuna, 2024:289-290).
Ergonomics is the study of how people interact with objects in their environment. The
goal is to create workspaces that fit people's physical needs, which improves morale,
performance, and reduces injuries.
The Department of Employment and Labour defines ergonomic risk as anything in the
workplace that can harm a person's health or reduce their ability to work effectively
(Ergonomics Regulations, 2019). Safety specialists have identified four main ergonomic
risk factors that need attention.
, 1.2 Heavy Lifting
Heavy lifting is one of the most common causes of workplace injuries. When employees
lift heavy objects without proper technique, they put excessive strain on their backs,
especially the lower spine (Goetsch, 2014:259). This can lead to serious back problems
like herniated discs, chronic pain, and long-term disability.
The Ergonomics Society of South Africa identifies heavy lifting as a critical risk factor
that can cause injury or strain (Ergonomics Society of South Africa, 2020:4). The
damage happens when the spine is forced to bear too much weight, especially when
lifting with a bent back or twisted posture. Over time, repeated heavy lifting causes
cumulative damage that reduces an employee's ability to work and enjoy their life.
The Department of Employment and Labour (2020:4) states that employers must
minimise loads where possible and ensure lifting happens within safe ranges. When
employers fail to address lifting hazards, they face not only direct injury costs but also
indirect costs like lost productivity, employee absence, and compensation claims under
COIDA.
1.3 Repetitive and Awkward Movements
Repetitive motions are a major ergonomic risk in many workplaces. This is especially
true in assembly lines, offices, and manufacturing settings. When employees repeat the
same movements over and over without enough rest or task variation, the strain builds
up on their tendons, ligaments, and muscles (Goetsch, 2014:259).
The Ergonomics Society of South Africa (2020:4) identifies repetitive motions,
insufficient rest breaks, and awkward postures as key physical risk factors. The injury
mechanism involves small tears in soft tissues that accumulate over time. This leads to
ASSIGNMENT 3 2026
DUE: 1 SEPT 2026
SEMESTER 2 2026
,MNO2603 ASSIGNMENT 3 2026
DUE 1 SEPT 2026
SECTION B: CASE STUDY
QUESTION 1
Analyse the ergonomic risk factors identified by safety regulation specialists and
explain how each of these factors may contribute to workplace injuries or
reduced employee well-being.
In December 2019, South Africa introduced new ergonomic regulations under the
Occupational Health and Safety Act. This made the country one of the first in the world
to specifically regulate ergonomics in the workplace (Nkuna, 2024:289-290).
Ergonomics is the study of how people interact with objects in their environment. The
goal is to create workspaces that fit people's physical needs, which improves morale,
performance, and reduces injuries.
The Department of Employment and Labour defines ergonomic risk as anything in the
workplace that can harm a person's health or reduce their ability to work effectively
(Ergonomics Regulations, 2019). Safety specialists have identified four main ergonomic
risk factors that need attention.
, 1.2 Heavy Lifting
Heavy lifting is one of the most common causes of workplace injuries. When employees
lift heavy objects without proper technique, they put excessive strain on their backs,
especially the lower spine (Goetsch, 2014:259). This can lead to serious back problems
like herniated discs, chronic pain, and long-term disability.
The Ergonomics Society of South Africa identifies heavy lifting as a critical risk factor
that can cause injury or strain (Ergonomics Society of South Africa, 2020:4). The
damage happens when the spine is forced to bear too much weight, especially when
lifting with a bent back or twisted posture. Over time, repeated heavy lifting causes
cumulative damage that reduces an employee's ability to work and enjoy their life.
The Department of Employment and Labour (2020:4) states that employers must
minimise loads where possible and ensure lifting happens within safe ranges. When
employers fail to address lifting hazards, they face not only direct injury costs but also
indirect costs like lost productivity, employee absence, and compensation claims under
COIDA.
1.3 Repetitive and Awkward Movements
Repetitive motions are a major ergonomic risk in many workplaces. This is especially
true in assembly lines, offices, and manufacturing settings. When employees repeat the
same movements over and over without enough rest or task variation, the strain builds
up on their tendons, ligaments, and muscles (Goetsch, 2014:259).
The Ergonomics Society of South Africa (2020:4) identifies repetitive motions,
insufficient rest breaks, and awkward postures as key physical risk factors. The injury
mechanism involves small tears in soft tissues that accumulate over time. This leads to
