Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training, and Skills Development’s (MLITSD) inspections are underway to prevent musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in the retail sector. MSDs refer to a range of aches and pains that affect the musculoskeletal system, including muscles, tendons, and nerves. Common examples include back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and tendonitis. Left unaddressed, these injuries can lead to long-term or even permanent disabilities.

“During this inspection campaign, MLITSD ergonomists will be looking at everything related to the flow of goods through the business,” explains Laura Veldhuyzen, Specialized Consultant in Ergonomics with WSPS. “We’re talking about receiving, unpacking, storing, transporting, stocking, point of sale, customer assistance, and delivery.”

MLITSD ergonomists have already begun visiting Ontario retail workplaces and will continue conducting focused inspections through March 31, 2026. If you're unsure where MSD hazards exist in your workplace or how to address them, WSPS can help with a free workplace walkthrough with a WSPS Health and Safety Consultant. “A WSPS Consultant will visit your workplace, pinpoint areas of concern, and provide practical guidance on how to eliminate or reduce the risks,” says Laura. “And we offer this service for free.”

Work with an expert to keep your team safe

WSPS has developed three checklists specifically designed to identify MSD hazards in retail workplaces, from small shops to big box and grocery stores. These checklists are ideal screening tools to flag issues so solutions can be implemented before a visit from a MLITSD inspector.

“We know completing checklists can be daunting, especially if you are not familiar with what is listed in the checklist or what you are looking at in the workplace,” says Laura. “That is why we are offering these walkthroughs. With the trained eyes of a safety expert, together we will be able to pinpoint areas of concern,” she explains.

The three checklists developed break down MSD hazards into three categories:

• general MSD hazards from manually handling items
• safe ladder use, and
• safety related to moving vehicles and equipment.

“We know the majority of MSD injuries in the retail sector are the result of handling items—for example, lifting cases of products, stocking shelves, moving boxes, carrying bags, etc. So, it makes sense to start there,” Laura says.

Participating workplaces will receive a report outlining the areas that need attention with recommendations on how to eliminate or reduce the hazard, along with links to information and resources specific to each issue. A walkthrough takes approximately one to two hours, so it is an efficient way to gain an understanding of the MSD hazards present at your workplace and learn what steps to take to protect your workers.

Tips to get started

Laura offers five tips to help workplaces get started. “These things can usually be implemented right away to reduce the risk of MSDs and create a safer work environment for everyone,” says Laura.

1. Consider where items are stored on shelves. Avoid reaching overhead or bending down low to pick up an item. Move heavier items to lower shelves for safer access.
2. Make sure walkways and aisles are clear. Remove any products, extension cords, and equipment to avoid slips and trips.
3. Ensure the type of ladders being used are suitable for the job (e.g., step ladders, portable stairs, A-frame ladders). Workers should be able to safely climb them, stand in a stable position, and retrieve items without reaching overhead or leaning to one side.
4. Avoid holding or handling items while climbing up or down a ladder. Maintain three points of control as much as possible.
5. Provide training. Make sure workers understand what MSDs are, the risks, and how to safely use equipment and handle materials.

How WSPS can help

Free workplace walkthrough

Sign up today to schedule your walkthrough with a safety expert. A WSPS Customer Care Representative will reach out to connect you with a Health and Safety Consultant.

Events

• Retail Ergonomics Workshop - Feb 26, 2026, virtual event

Resources

• Safety Connection - MLITSD Retail Ergonomics Campaign (pre-recorded webinar)
• Manual Material Handling Checklist
• Ladder Risk Identification Checklist
• Pedestrian Safety Checklist
• Preparing for an MLITSD Inspection
• Ergo Insights: Safe Material Handling Guide

Training

• Ergonomics in the Workplace (online courses)
• Manual Material Handling (eCourse, 90 minutes)
• Safe Lifting and Manual Material Handling (online, instructor-led, 0.5 day)

The information in this article is accurate as of its publication date.