What can ergonomics prevent?
In any job, certain elements or tasks are potentially stressful and, over time, they result in a cumulative trauma disorder (CTD). Repetitive motions, awkward postures, forceful exertions, mechanical pressure on soft tissues, inadequate rest or adverse environmental conditions can all contribute to the development of a CTD. What are examples of a CTD? Carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, trigger finger, muscle strains, sciatica, rotator cuff tendonitis, carpet layer’s knee and lower back pain are all examples of a CTD. Most back injuries are a result of cumulative trauma rather than a sudden, acute incident. Repetitive motion disorders and overuse syndromes are other terms that apply to this classification of injuries. According to Safety Controls Technology, a nationally respected engineering, environmental and occupational safety and health services firm, in a recent year more than 281,000 work-related injuries in the United States were caused by repetition disorders — more than doubl
