What are common job injuries that can be reduced with good ergonomics?
Injuries affecting muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, nerves and discs can be reduced or eliminated with ergonomics. These injuries are frequently called MusculoSkeletal Disorders (MSD’s), Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI’s) and Cumulative Trauma Disorders (CTD’s). What are the common ergonomic risk factors? • Awkward body postures: maintaining an awkward, unsupported or fixed posture such as bending, reaching or twisting for prolonged periods. • Excessive repetition: doing the same motions over and over again. • Excessive force: physical exertion or pressure on any part of the body while lifting, pushing, pulling or gripping a tool. • Contact stress: pressure by tools, edges or hard surfaces on soft tissues of the body. The palms and elbows are often at high risk. • Vibration: using vibrating or impact tools and equipment. Some risk factors have nothing to do with work and can include medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and hormonal imbalances, as well as hobbi
