Biomechanical Hazards/Injuries
 | ERGONOMIC HAZARDS The Ontario Ministry of Labour (2002) defines ergonomic hazards as “the type of work, body position and [the] working conditions [that] put strain on your body. They are the hardest to spot since you do not always immediately notice the strain on your body or the harm these hazards pose. Short-term exposure may result in 'sore muscles' the next day or in the days following exposure, but long term exposure can result in serious long-term injuries.” Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSDs) In the assembly line, it is not unusual for workers to be diagnosed with WMSDs. Within the assembly line, most work does require workers to pose themselves in awkward positions to work on different locations of the vehicle. Furthermore, they are more likely to engage in work tasks that require repetitive manual applications. Thus, the musculoskeletal disorder is highly due to repetitive motion and improper or awkward structure of body positioning. The majority of workers are diagnosed with upper extremity disorders (wrists, elbow, shoulder, fingers, thumbs and hands), followed by traumatic and chiropractor disorders. |
Common Diagnosed Conditions in the Assembly Line:
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome – Irritation of the tendon and pressure on the nerve in the wrists
- Tendonitis – Overuse of tendon causing inflammation
- Tenosynovitis (Trigger finger) – Inflammation of the tendon sheath
More in depth information can be found on http://www.impacto.ca/pages/hazards.php
SOLUTIONS
It can be challenging for workers to find a way to eliminate these hazards due to the restrictions brought to them by the build of the car. It can really put strain on their bodies when they position themselves, especially to small vehicles that are being built. Thus, employers should accommodate to workers allowing work task rotations, breaks when necessary, reduced workload, reinforce training about WMSDs and encourage workers to report signs of discomfort. Meanwhile, workers should be well rested, follow safety practice regulations and attend trainings provided by employers. In addition, stretching muscles and doing small exercises can help to prevent WMSDs. Workstations should be designed to have tools within a comfortable distance to increase efficiency and minimize the need for workers to move and twist their body so often. Support devices can be provided for those workers who are more likely to be in awkward positions for long periods of time. Also employers should invest in tools with an easy grip which helps to lessen the pressure for fingers and hands when in use.
For more information, please see links below from the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety
