Reducing Repetitive Motion Injuries by Anna Meyerhoff, Farm Safety Educator, The New York Center for Agricultural Medicine & Health - NYCAMH Sometimes, the nature of agricultural work may require stressful positions and activities for workers. Work that involves frequent bending at the wrist, grasping objects, lifting or raising of the arm and shoulder, twisting or squeezing motions can lead to repetitive motion injuries (RMIs). RMIs can also result from awkward positions or movements, muscle fatigue, vibrations, and poor work postures. Workers performing tasks that require repeated use of hands, wrists and forearms for long periods of time are especially prone to this type of injury. Here are a few examples of some tasks that could cause RMIs: • pruning • weeding • potting plants • picking fruit • packing boxes • using sharp or vibrating tools • assembly line work Repetitive motion injuries can be mild or severe. The most common areas affected are fingers, hands, elbows, wrists, shoulders, back, arms and
neck. Pain may develop slowly and generally get worse over time. These injuries can eventually cause permanent damage to the muscles, nerves, tendons and ligaments of the body. In some cases, RMIs such as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, which affects the wrists, may even require surgery. It is important to recognize the warning signs early enough to do something about them. Workers should be aware of symptoms and report pain or other signs of repetitive motion injuries to their supervisor. Symptoms of repetitive motion injuries include: • pain or soreness • muscle fatigue • tingling • numbness • stiffness • swelling or redness • loss of flexibility • loss of strength There are a few ways to reduce the risk of repetitive motion injuries among workers. Since RMIs are caused by performing an action or motion over and over again without interruption, one of the best ways to prevent such injuries is by limiting the time workers spend performing the
same task. Having workers take short breaks allows the affected body part time to rest and recover. Switching between different tasks throughout the day can also help reduce strain from stressful postures and repetitive motions. Another way to reduce the risk of injuries is through proper stretching. Workers should be encouraged to take micro-breaks and stretch before, during and after the workday to help prevent RMIs. While stopping the motions that cause pain isn't always possible, making even small changes to the way work is performed can make a big difference in reducing injuries and increasing productivity. Ergonomics is the science of designing the workplace to fit the worker. Ergonomics takes into consideration things like the weight of objects handled, worker postures and movements, grip, and repeti-
tion of tasks. The goal is to reduce excessive exertion, awkward postures and physical strain by modifying the work environment and tools. By making these changes, workers will be more productive, lose less work time to injuries, and experience less pain and fatigue. By using good ergonomic work practices and following these guidelines, you can help reduce the risk of repetitive motion injuries among your workers. Tips for reducing repetitive motion injuries: • adjust the work environment where necessary, where possible keep the work around waist level trying to avoid excessive bending down or reaching up • limit or rotate repetitive tasks • have workers take short breaks and properly stretch
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February 20, 2012 • COUNTRY FOLKS West • Section F - Page F5
• Farm Accidents • Tractor Accidents • Insurance Lawsuits • Defective Equipment • Farm Losses Caused by the Fault of Another