Course:SPPH381B/TermProject/Coffee Beans/Repetitive Strain Injury

Repetitive Strain Injury

Occupational hazard analysis

Recognize

A repetitive strain injury is an injury caused by repetitive motion or vibrations, resulting in damage to the muscles, tendons, or other soft tissues. A RSI differentiates itself from normal strain as the symptoms often persist beyond what it would normally take for the injury to heal. Repetitive strain injuries are usually associated with the hands, wrists, elbows, arms, neck, or shoulders. Symptoms include pain, tenderness, numbness, or weakness.

Evaluate

Workers operating machinery that involves significant vibrations such as power tools or factory equipment are at risk of developing RSIs. The injuries are usually caused by cumulative stress that builds up over time. Therefore, if a worker is continuously exposed to these vibrations this puts them at a higher risk of developing a RSI.

People who perform repetitive motions are also at a higher risk. This includes farmers and anyone typing on a keyboard.

Repetitive strain injuries can be debilitating and can prevent a worker from operating normally. If caught early, some minor RSIs can resolve themselves. Usually therapy is required, and in some cases surgery is also required. Symptoms can persist for years.

Control

In order to lower the risk of developing a repetitive strain injury, workers should rotate jobs when possible. They should also take frequent breaks. Workers should be educated such that their posture and arm motion are less damaging. General exercise has also been shown to lower the risk of RSIs. As total elimination of the repetitive motions and vibrations is rarely possible, the goal is to lower the amount of exposure workers have to these risks.

Employers should encourage workers to report any symptoms of repetitive stress injuries early and to see a medical professional. The controls the employer puts in place should be continuously monitored to ensure they are effective.