PREVENTION OF MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS IN THE WORKPLACE

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) affect the muscles, nerves, blood vessels, ligaments and tendons. At the University of Utah, employees in different departments and occupations can be exposed to risk factors at work, such as lifting heavy items, bending, reaching overhead, pushing and pulling heavy loads, working in awkward body postures and performing the same or similar tasks repetitively. Exposure to these known risk factors for MSDs increases an employee’s risk of injury.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, MSDs are the number two cause of missed work. MSDs can be prevented.  “Ergonomics” — fitting a job to a person— can assist with lessening muscle fatigue, increases productivity and reduces the number and severity of work-related MSDs.

For more assistance on best practices or an ergonomics assessment of your work space, contact the Department of Occupational and Environmental Health and Safety at 801-581-6590.