Ergonomic injuries, or musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), accounted for 33% of all work injuries and illnesses in 2011, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The average time away from work it took to recuperate from an MSD was 11 days. MSDs are linked to repetitive tasks such as frequent reaching, lifting, or carrying, overuse of muscles, awkward postures, forceful exertions (carrying or lifting heavy loads), and static posture which is staying in fixed positions when working.
Common MSD injuries include tendonitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, reduced range of motion, loss of strength, pain and swelling, and numbness and tingling such as your hands falling asleep.
Follow these work station tips to avoid a MSD:
- Look for work stations that are designed with spring leveling carts and elevating tables to keep objects at waist level for lifting.
- Adjust work areas to fit your height.
- Shift positions or get up and stretch periodically. Encourage your co-workers to do the same.
Occupations more likely to see MSD injuries include nursing assistants, and heavy tractor-trailer truck drivers. The most server MSDs occurred to the shoulder, according to BLS figures. Office workers and those in industrial jobs may suffer chronic strain in their shoulders and necks.
Follow these steps to prevent shoulder and neck strain:
- Place your desk telephone closer to you so you don't have to reach over to pick up the handset.
- Consider getting a hands-free head set if you spend a lot of time on the phone, as squeezing a handset between the ear and shoulder can cause stress and neck pain.
- Stand up occasionally from your desk and move around and stretch.
- If you're working on a processing line, make sure your area is set appropriately for your height. Taller employees should not be stooping and shorter employees should not have to reach improperly as both static, focused postures can cause strain and stress.
- If you're using hand tools, make sure they are sharp so you aren't twisting your arms, neck or shoulders to complete cutting tasks.
OSHA offers industry-specific guidelines for some trade and professional associations and related organizations. The agency offers a variety of eTools proving Web-based solutions to ergonomic hazards.
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