First check the scope
The standard applies to workplaces involving routine manual handling of loads, defined as more than once a day, and excludes activities involving loads below three kilograms. The official catalogue identifies it as in force.
That exclusion does not mean that a task involving light objects has no ergonomic risk. It may require assessment for repetition or posture under other applicable criteria. Nor should thresholds or documents intended for another jurisdiction automatically be transferred to Mexico.
Identify the complete task
Analysis begins by locating lifting, lowering, carrying, pushing, pulling or stacking activities, describing them and identifying exposed people, frequency and duration. Auxiliary equipment without its own propulsion does not necessarily eliminate physical effort.
A useful observation follows the complete route: origin and destination, heights, available space, grips and variations in the material. Include less frequent situations during the working day, such as clearing jams or changes in how goods are presented. A job title is usually too broad to represent every task.
Choose the depth of analysis
NOM-036-1 distinguishes a simple estimate or rapid assessment from a specific assessment. The latter is required in the specified circumstances when the estimate cannot establish an acceptable level or the hazard remains after measures are introduced. It may also be applied directly.
Do not turn a tool into an automatic score without observing its conditions of use. Record data, method, assumptions and limitations. When an operation combines different tasks, check that the assessment represents that variability rather than only the easiest movement.
Control effort through design
The Federal Regulation requires measures addressing ergonomic factors and links them with information, training and health surveillance. In practice, examining task design allows action before relying exclusively on individual behaviour.
Compare options such as reducing handling, moving delivery points closer, changing heights or introducing suitable aids. Check that the change does not create new trapping or traffic risks. An instruction on correct lifting does not, by itself, compensate for a poorly designed task.
Training, health and reviewing the outcome
The standard includes information and training for exposed personnel, records of measures and health surveillance under its specific chapter. Health assessment belongs to competent medical personnel; a discomfort survey does not replace analysis of the job.
After a change, observe how the task is performed and listen to those doing it. Check whether the aid is available, can be used in the actual space and works throughout the shift. Keep preventive records separate from confidential health data.
Hypothetical example: changing a delivery arrangement
A warehouse identifies routine handling of boxes from the floor to a table. It analyses frequency, heights and route, and decides to change the incoming goods arrangement and introduce a lifting aid.
The trial reveals that a corner restricts the equipment’s movement. The layout is modified and the task observed again. Closing the action includes checking residual effort and training personnel to use the aid, without assuming that buying it eliminated every risk.
