Ergonomic injuries, also known as musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) or repetitive strain injuries (RSIs), are conditions that result from improper ergonomic practices. The patterns we employ when working can incur repetitive strain on parts of our body. These types of injuries primarily affect the muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, and joints. The most common ergonomic related injuries include carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), tendonitis, bursitis, spinal stenosis, and shoulder impingement. Prolonged poor posture, repetitive motions, and excessive force are ergonomic risk factors. These factors combined with inadequate rest or recovery time, can contribute to the development of these types of injuries.

Take a moment to look at how a workstation design plays a big role influencing the ergonomic risk factors presented above. First, repetitive motions are those tasks to which a person repeats possibly hundreds of times in a day. Take a second to think about what motions you do around a hundred times or more a day. These motions strain muscles and joints over time. The second influencer is sustained awkward postures such as sitting or standing in a non-neutral position for 1 hour or more. Now take a second to visualize the possibly poor postures you might have in a day. Third is forceful exertions. You might be lifting heavy objects or forcefully typing (more force than necessary). The last and big one, is inadequate rest or recovery time. Taking frequent short micro-breaks is critical for an 8-hour workday. As you might imagine, age and pre-existing health conditions can increase the likelihood of developing an MSD. It is important to identify and immediately address these risk factors to prevent an MSD or RSI development over time.

Early detection is a key to prevent MSDs and RSI development

For an employer, it is critical that employees are encouraged to report ergonomic injuries immediately. Employees that promptly report ergonomic injuries, allows employers to take immediate action to stop the progression of the injury and issues that lead up to them. This protects not only that worker but the entire workforce. Also, by addressing the problem early on, employers can implement necessary ergonomic interventions to prevent further injuries reducing the overall risk of the job on all staff. Ergonomic training by certified professional ergonomists plays into preventing MSDs and RSIs by educating employees about proper ergonomic practices and biomechanics.  Employees gain the knowledge and skills to mitigate the ergonomic risk factors present at their workstation. Ergonomic training sessions cover topics such as ideal posture, body mechanics, proper lifting techniques, and the importance of regular breaks and stretching exercises. It raises awareness of the hidden causes behind ergonomic risks and employees can identify ergonomic hazards in their work environment and make necessary adjustments to their workstations and equipment. Employees also are trained on how to recognize early signs and symptoms of MSDs and RSIs which encourages them to report them promptly. The investment is worthwhile. By implementing ergonomics in the workplace, organizations empower employees to proactively reduce their overall risk, creating a healthier and happier workforce. Do you or your employees need ergonomics training? Visit our Ergobility website to contact us and schedule an ergonomics training or assessment with our top certified professional ergonomic trainers.