Basic Ergonomics
Musculoskeletal Disorders
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) include a group of conditions that involve the nerves, tendons, muscles, and supporting structures such as intervertebral discs. They represent a wide range of disorders, which can differ in severity from mild, periodic symptoms to severe, chronic, and debilitating conditions.
Below is a list of examples.
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Tenosynovitis
- Tension neck syndrome
- low back pain
Contributing Factors
Contributing factors are aspects of work tasks that can lead to fatigue, MSD symptoms and injuries, or other types of problems. These factors may be present in one or more of the tasks employees must perform to accomplish their jobs.
The contributing factors you should be aware of include:
- Awkward postures,
- Repetitive motions,
- Forceful exertions,
- Pressure points (e.g., local contact stress),
- Vibration, and
- The environment (e.g., light, noise, temperature extremes).
For instance, twisting while lifting a heavy box will most likely cause musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) due to forceful exertions.
For more information on ergonomics, take OSHAcademy Courses 711, Introduction to Ergonomics and Course 722, Ergonomics Program Management.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
2-9. Twisting while lifting a heavy box will most likely cause musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) due to _____.
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