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Ergonomics and Musculoskeletal Disorders
Not all MSDs are related to work activities. Other factors such as personal characteristics and societal factors have also been associated with ergonomic related injuries and illnesses. When analyzing jobs or work tasks that may be associated with MSDS, conditions to consider may include, but are not limited to:
Awkward Postures, which might include: prolonged work with hands above the head or with the elbows above the shoulders; prolonged work with the neck bent; squatting, kneeling, or lifting; handling objects with back bent or twisted; repeated or sustained bending or twisting of wrists, knees, hips or shoulders; forceful and repeated gripping or pinching.

Forceful Lifting, Pushing Or Pulling, which might include: handling heavy objects; moving bulky or slippery objects; assuming awkward postures while moving objects.

Prolonged Repetitive Motion, which might include: keying; using tools or knives; packaging, handling, or manipulating objects.

Contact Stress, which might include: repeated contact with hard or sharp objects, like desk or table edges.

Vibration, which might include: overuse of power hand tools.
For more information please see:
  • . National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Safety and Health Topic.