Occupational Ergonomics and Injuries

Ergonomics is a way of designing work stations or work practices to accommodate the capabilities of the workers. Increased rate and cost of ergonomic injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), tendinitis, and low back pain have been noted across many different industries. The direct cost of a worker’s ergonomic-related overall medical costs can average about $9,000. Indirect costs including productivity and employee morale, may cost a company four to ten times more than its direct cost. Everyone should learn how to prevent and control ergonomic risk factors so that you can work safer at your job.

Who is at risk?
You may be at risk of developing conditions that may affect your health if you are experiencing any of these five things:

• Your work involves a repetitive motion
• You need to perform your tasks in awkward positions
• You work requires a great deal of physical force to perform a task
• You lift heavy weights at work
• Constant vibrations to the body

If you’re unsure if your workstation is designed properly, you should consider an ergonomic consultation. Many employers can help you schedule an evaluation through their HR department. An ergonomic consultation may include:

• work station analysis
• company wide risk factor assessment
• training and education
• develop and implement ergonomic programs
• answer questions for ergonomic regulatory requirements

What is the role of a physical therapist?
Physical therapists perform a wide range of evaluations and provide valuable ergonomic assessments such as:

• Evaluate posture and educate workers to prevent certain movements to decrease likelihood of injury
• Modify work tools, and create and educate strategies to decrease risk for injury
• Treat low back, CTS, and any musculoskeletal pain so workers can go back to work as soon as possible
• Assess strength and functional movement to evaluate if worker is capable of certain job requirements.

If you would like to know if your workstation is optimized for your type of work, seek a therapist for an ergonomics assessment.