Reducing Musculoskeletal Disorder

When there is a mismatch between the physical requirements of the job and the physical capacity of the worker, there is a potential for a musculoskeletal disorder problem. Ergonomics is the science of preventing these problems by fitting workplace conditions and job demands to the capabilities of workers.

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) have a variety of causes. These include repitition of the same motion throughout the workday, or working in an awkward position, or having to use more than normal force to perform a task, or a combination of these. The level of risk depends on how long a someone is exposed to these harmful conditions, how frequently they are exposed, and the level of exposure.

In addition, other factors can increase the risk of musculoskeletal disorder. For example, tasks that result in fatigue, or existing MSD symptoms and injuries can result in increased risks. The factors that are most likley to contribute to an MDs are:

* Awkward postures
* Repetitive motions
* Forceful exertions
* Pressure points (e.g., local contact stress)
* Vibration

Employorers need to be aware of these within their facility and take steps to reduce employee exposure to these.

Musculoskeletal disorders are among the most prevalent medical problems in the U.S., affecting 7% of the population. They account for 14% of physician visits and 19% of hospital stays. 62% of persons with MSD report some degree of limitation on activity compared with 14% in the population at large.

Often MSDs can be prevented by simple and inexpensive changes in the workplace. Adjusting the height of working surfaces, varying tasks for workers and encouraging short rest breaks can reduce risks. Reducing the size of items workers must lift or providing lifting equipment also may aid workers. Specially designed equipment, such as curved knives for poultry processors, may help.

An excellent online Introduction to Ergonomics course is offered FREE by the Oregon OSHA.

Communication Is Important For Safety

Having an effective hazard communication program is important both for employee safety, and for meeting OSHA rules. The following is basesd on OSHA's Hazard Communication guidelines (from OR-OSHA 440-3343(5/01).

Here's a checklist to help ensure you have an effective hazard communication system in place:

[] Have you compiled a list of hazardous substances that are used in your workplace?

[] Is there a written hazard communication program dealing with Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs), labeling and employee training?

[] Is someone specifically responsible for MSDSs, container labeling and employee training?

[] Is each container for a hazardous substance (including vats, bottles, storage tanks and drums) labeled to identify the product it contains and to provide a hazard warning that communicates the specific health and physical hazards of that product?

[] Is there an MSDS readily available for each hazardous substance used?

[] Do you inform other employers, vendors and contractors whose employees share a work area with your employees, where hazardous substances are used?

[] Do you have an employee training program for hazardous substances? Does this program include:

--- An explaination of what an MSDS is, and how to obtain and use one?

--- An explaination of "right to know?"

--- The contents of the MSDS for each hazardous substance or class of substances?

--- Information informing employees where they can review your written hazard communication program, and where hazardous substances are located in work areas?

--- Information explaining the physical and health hazards of substances in the work area, how to detect their presence, and the specific protective measures to be used.

--- Hazard communication program details including the labeling system and MSDS used in your facility?

--- How employees will be informed about hazards involved in non-routine tasks and the hazards of unlabeled pipes?

Stay Flexible

I’ve just returned from Russia with a new addition to my management toolbox – a plastic drinking straw with a flexible section near one end. Anyone involved with international business should carry one of these straws in their briefcase. It serves as an excellent reminder of a personal attitude that is essential for international business—stay flexible.

Stay flexible: you’ll be able to take advantage of opportunities you never realized might exist.

Stay flexible: when things are moving slowly use the extra time to build personal relationships. Take the time to be interested in people, not for what you can get from them, but for who they are.

Stay flexible: those with whom you are working may have significantly different priorities. Be open to alternative solutions to problems and obstacles.

Stay flexible: there will be problems. Things will not go as planned. Planes will be delayed. Connections missed. Supplies lost. And materials delivered late. Be willing and prepared to adjust how you do things so as to accommodate the unexpected.

Stay flexible...