Work-Related Risk Factors
Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) are causes of impairments of bodily structures, such as muscles, joints and tendons. They are caused or aggravated primarily by work or the effects of the immediate work environment. They can be highly detrimental to an individual’s quality of life and ability to work. They are one of the most common causes of disability, sick leave and early retirement.
Physical, organisational, psychosocial factors can also contribute to their development.
Musculo-skeletal Disorders
The most common work-related MSDs are backache and pains in the Neck and upper limbs caused by Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI) and sustained postures.
This is as a result of incorrect placement of elements of the workstation, poor lighting, reflections from screen, glare, lack of organisation of work time and poor posture.
Visual Fatigue / Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS)
Dry eyes, watery eyes, blurred vision, double vision, headaches, aches in neck, shoulders and back.
Organisational Disorders
Poor design of task, lack of control of nature of task, inadequate breaks leading to mental stress and musculo-skeletal disorders.
Psycho-social Disorders
Lack of support from colleagues and management, unclear confliction roles leading to emotional stress and musculo-skeletal disorders.