Health Hub: Ergonomics

Ergonomics impact us all — whether we realize it or not. The word ergonomics comes from the Greek word “ergon” which means work and “nomos” which means laws. It’s essentially the “laws of work” or “science of work”. The goal is to eliminate discomfort and risk of injury due to work. Ergonomic injuries are called Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and they affect the muscles, nerves, blood vessels, ligaments and tendons.

Workers in many different industries 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 a worker's risk of injury.

Work-related MSDs can be prevented. Here are some resources that can help to address ergonomic risk factors.

• Ergonomic Basics
• Ergonomic Risk Factor Checklist
• Caution Zone Checklist
• Tips for Adjunct Road Warriors
• Para Evaluation Ergonomics
• Computer Ergonomic Solutions
• Ergonomic Checkpoints in Healthcare Work
• Body Map