| Occupational safety and health
professionals have become increasingly concerned
with the development of Cumulative Trauma
Disorders (CTDs) in workers performing
hand-intensive jobs. These disorders, which
primarily affect the soft tissues of the
musculoskeletal system, are associated with
repeated or sustained exertions in awkward or
static postures, or with a high concentration of
stress in the upper extremities. Research
conducted at various worksites over the last few
years confirmed earlier observations that
attributed many of the CTDs to improperly
designed work surfaces and/or improper selection
of tools that place excessive stress on the
tendons, muscles and nerves. In an occupational
setting, the recommended intervention is to
modify or redesign the job or tool to minimize
sources of biomechanical trauma. Based on the
theory that work-related trauma is the principle
causal factor, such action should result in a
reduced incidence of occupational musculoskeletal
disorders. The
information contained in this manual will help
health professionals, workers and employers be
more cognizant of the types of work patterns that
have potential to cause various CTDs and be aware
of the ergonomic interventions that can be
adopted to reduce these problems in the
workplace.
Vern Putz-Anderson,
Chief of the Psychophysiology and Biomechanics
Section at NIOSH, currently leads the Institute's
program concerned with work-related
musculoskeletal disorders. Dr Putz-Anderson also
serves as Adjunct Associate Professor of
Psychology at the University of Cincinnati,
U.S.A.
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