OHS BRIEF26/02/2015 Topic: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs)

What does the term musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) mean?1.1 MSD is an umbrella term for injuries and disorders that include: Sprains and strains of muscles, ligaments and tendons , back injuries and Low back pain ,Joint injuries or degeneration, Bone injuries (e.g. fractures) ,Nerve injuries (e.g. carpal tunnel syndrome of the wrist) and muscular and vascular disorders as a result of handarm vibration (HAV) . MSDs may occur suddenly as a result of a single forceful action like pulling a moving object, lifting a heavy object, actions causing overexertion or through a slip, trip or fall. It may also develop over a longer period as symptoms associated with minor tissue injuries (including nerve and vascular tissues) are ignored, eventually resulting in a more serious injury. Injuries suffered by workers (eg. transport drivers, mechanics) doing repetitive work and/or work of a similar nature could also fall into this category. 1.2 Key risk factors and specific task characteristics that increase the risk of MSDs are: Awkward postures Bending and twisting Manual handling/load Forceful exertions Repetitive actions Heavy lifting Vibration hand/arm and whole body Narrow Access Slips, trips and falls

1.3 SYMPTOMS OF MSDsKey symptoms include generalized bodily pains, weakness, joint pains and swelling, low back pain, thigh pain, numbness and tingling of hands and feet etc.

1.4 FACTORS THAT CONTRIBUTE TO MSDs

Unsafe bending and Lifting Stretching to reach for objects above shoulder level

Awkward Postures Long hours of jobs involving vibration eg. drilling

1.5 Prevention of MSDs. Avoid unsafe acts /postures that contribute to MSDsLimit manual material handling as much as possible, If possible, push and pull rather than carry. Use lifting devices when available and practice team lifting for heavy objects.Use appropriate portable office stairs or ladders to reach for objects at heights.Take short breaks in between works that involve repetitive movements or static standing or sitting postures for long hours. Rotational schedules should be encouraged for work areas with vigorous physical exertionRegular exercises also help prevent MSDs. Kindly make it a point to be present at your next departmental tool box meeting for more information on MSDs. Best Regards, Dr. Alex Arthur Resident Doctor.