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722 Ergonomics Program Management
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Psychological Risk Factors

In addition to the above conditions, other aspects of work may not only contribute to physical stress but psychological stress as well.

worker upset for being fired
Under distress, the probability of an MSD injury increases.

As long as we believe we have adequate control over all aspects of our job, we may experience normal stress. However, if we believe we have little control over job demands, we may suffer from distress with accompanying ill health and possible irrational behaviors. Under distress, the probability of an accident increases greatly.

Research is examining work factors such as performance monitoring, incentive pay systems, and unreasonable management production demands to determine whether these factors have a negative effect on the musculoskeletal system.

Another related area of research is to determine which personal, work, or societal factors contribute to acute musculoskeletal disorders developing into chronic or disabling problems.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

3-4. Which of the following will likely increase psychological stress on the job?