Musculoskeletal Disorders, Workplace Ergonomics and Injury Prevention

Abstract

Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) affect body parts, with severity ranging from mild to intense. When MSDs develop in occupational settings, sequel to the physical tasks involved in the performance of work and the condition of the work-environment, they are referred to as work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). The development and prognosis of any particular MSDs are modified by multiple risk factors, which are physical, individual, and psychosocial, in nature. None of these factors act separately to cause WMSDs, rather, they interact. The goal of ergonomics is to create an ergonomically sound work-environment, with the view to reducing the occurrence of WMSDs. This is premised on adherence to effective workplace ergonomic principles (WEP). By and large, WEP is more effective when done both at the workplace and during the performance of leisure time activities. Often, WEP involves designing the workplace, with consideration for the capabilities and limitations of the workers, thus promoting good musculoskeletal health, and improving performance and productivity. For favorable outcomes, a three-tier hierarchy of controls (Engineering, Administrative, and use of Personal Protective Equipment) is widely accepted as a standard intervention strategy for reducing, eliminating, or controlling workplace hazards. Failure of this strategy will expose workers to WMSDs.