When we think of workplace safety, many of us tend to think of the safety needs surrounding a physical work environment — the factory or outdoor work places that define the construction, oil & gas, manufacturing and mining industries. But of course, many workers spend their days indoors in the office environment, a space that deceptively carries its own workplace safety hazards, often caused by repetitive strain disorders.
No workplace safety hazard is so prevalent as repetitive strain disorders caused by computer-based work at a desk. When ignored or misunderstood, injuries caused by repetitive strain can lead to on-going issues throughout your work-life.
The fact is that 2.3 million Canadians are annually affected by an RSI injury that is severe enough to limit their normal activities, and most of these injuries occur at the office.
Today, February 28th, marks International Repetitive Strain Injury Day. In recognition of the day, the Canadian government offers a number of fact sheets and prevention documents related to the prevention of RSI injuries.
You can find this documentation here: www.ccohs.ca/keytopics/ergonomics.html
Your back, your wrists and shoulders, your feet; all are susceptible to repetitive strain injuries. With proper ergonomic arrangements, most of these issues can be prevented or minimized. Be aware of the safety hazards, take time today and in the coming days to understand RSI prevention, your body will thank you for it.
Ergonomic Safety Infographic
Read on and understand how proper ergonomic approaches can boost productivity in the workplace.