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What is Musculoskeletal Disorder (MSD)?
MSDs are injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal
system. They may be caused or aggravated by various
hazards and / or risks in the workplace.
The Musculoskeletal system includes:
Muscles, Tendons and Tendon sheaths
Nerves
Bursa
Blood vessels
Joints and Spinal discs
Ligaments
Many body parts are and can be affected. The back is the
most common, followed by the shoulders, neck, elbow,
hands, wrists and eyes.
Symptoms generally include:
Pain with or without movement.
Pain or stiffness when changing positions, or rising
from bed in the morning.
Numbness, tingling, burning, weakness, or pain.
Muscle fatigue, aches which subside during rest.
The following graph represents the trend of MSD related
injuries in Canada.
(22% Decrease)
(15% Decrease)
Despite the minor decreases
over the past decade, MSD related injuries are still the
number one contributor /cause of Lost Time Claims.
For this reason, government, industry and companies have
now placed a greater focus on MSDs. Although MSDs are
not specified, this provision implies protecting
employees from known risks of MSDs.
Under the General Duty Clause of the Canada Labor Code,
Canadian employers must take reasonable measures to
protect the health and safety of their workers.
In addition to the General Duty Clause, several
provinces have developed their own regulations. These
province-specific legislations more clearly define an
employers legal responsibilities.
What is your organization doing to prevent/control
hazards that could lead to MSDs in your workplace?
Ask yourself the following:
1. Is your company a MSD work safe environment?
2. Is your workplace contributing to these statistics?
3. Is your company MSD Free?
For additional information please visit our website for
upcoming training courses.
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