The Ergonomic Challenge

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are the most common occupational disease in the EU and North America as well as one of the most important causes for long-term sick leave.

Automation and industrialization of factories and work sites have been a great development in terms of improved health and safety for workers, but has led to more grasp intensive work tasks. This means exposure to high forces, repetitive and/or static work and involves a risk for the workers to develop strain injuries. To create sustainable workplaces, it is crucial to protect the workers by improving ergonomics and integrating them into the Industry 4.0/Factory of the Future concept.

At EU level, repetitive work is the most common risk factor. The situation in North America is very similar. It is however common that workers are exposed to more than one risk factor. Additionally, exposure to above risk factors are increasing in younger working populations making it of utmost importance to implement corrective actions to create a sustainable workplace.

MSD Definition:

Musculoskeletal Disorders or MSDs are injuries and disorders that affect the human body’s movement or musculoskeletal system (i.e. muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, discs, blood vessels, etc.).

WRULD Definition:

Work-related neck and upper limb disorders (WRULDs) are the most common occupational diseases. They affect the neck, shoulders, arms, hands, wrists and fingers, causing pain, discomfort, numbness and tingling sensations. Other symptoms, which can be exacerbated by cold or the use of vibrating tools, include swelling in the joints, decreased mobility or grip strength, and a change in skin color of the hands or fingers. WRULDs usually develop gradually, the cumulative effect of many, apparently moderate applications of force, repeated over an extended period.

Risk factors

• repetitive work
• painful and/or tiring positions
• carrying and/or moving heavy loads
• vibrations
• lifting and/or moving people
• prolonged standing or walking

What can be done to prevent strain injuries?

Assessment of the hazards and risks in the workplace is paramount. Employers are required to evaluate risks to safety and health within their workplaces and then to improve the standards of safety and health for workers and others who may be at risk of harm = risk assessment. In addition to that workers at risk should be supported in their daily work wherever possible. New innovative solutions like exoskeletons or soft robotics provide endless possibilities.

*Musculoskeletal Disorders and the Workplace: Low Back and Upper Extremities, Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 2001

**Fit For Work? Musculoskeletal Disorders in the European Workforce, The work foundation, September 2009

***U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, November 2018; SHA Safety Pays Program (Calculator)