Research indicates that chronic disease and declining physical fitness are the primary risk factors for injuries and MSDs. Work demands and job tasks also contribute. Let’s not forget stress in general, one of the biggest risk factors of all, which surrounds all of us both at home and at work!
A comprehensive, “Whole Person” strategy is necessary for effective MSD Injury Prevention because a variety of risk factors are involved. Some risk factors are the responsibility of the workplace, while others are the responsibility of the worker.
Following are some risk factors at play in today’s workforce:
Perceptions – Habits – Mindsets – Force – Overexertion – Repetition
Inefficient (At-Risk) Postures – Contact Stress
Work Loads – Worker Capacity – Preexisting Conditions
Standing & Sitting for Long Periods of Time
Spinal Anomalies – Sedentary Lifestyles
Lack of Sleep – Lack of Exercise – Poor Nutrition – Hydration
Core Conditioning – Age – Obesity – Diabetes
Caffeine & Energy Drink Consumption
Knowledge Gaps – Lifting – Pulling – Pushing – Carrying Objects
Previous Injuries (Reported or Unreported)
Poorly Designed Equipment – Work Stations – Vehicles
Temperature – Vibration / Poor Matching of Employee to Task
Lack of Job Rotation – Lack of Recovery Time – Poor Supervision
Poor Communications – Low Culture Climate – Low Workforce Morale
These risk factors add substantial gravity for the necessity of providing effective MSD Injury and Illness Education and Training.
In the case of MSD risk, it is not a question of which one of these risk factors affects your workforce, but “How many of these risk factors exist in your company and employees today, or will exist tomorrow if proactive, prevention-based solutions are not put into place?”
Accurate Ergonomics is ready to reduce risk factors in your organization. Our experts know how to recognize risk, so that the right strategies and countermeasures are put into place. Our training system also teaches risk recognition to Employees and Supervisors.
Call Accurate Ergonomics at 1-866-950-ERGO (3746), or email info@aeonlinelearningacademy.com.