Ergonomics for Healthcare Workers
Course Description:
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA, work-related musculoskeletal disorders, or MSDs, are among the most frequently reported causes of lost or restricted work time. Workers in many different industries and occupations can be exposed to MSD risk factors on the job. Fortunately, work-related MSDs can be prevented. By understanding basic ergonomic principles and applying them to your job, you can minimize MSD risk factors, avoid strains on your body, and reduce your risk of injury. This session is designed to assist all workers in healthcare settings, including care providers, support personnel, and administrative staff, in preventing MSDs. |
Course Duration: 20 minutes
Why “Ergonomics for Healthcare Workers” Matters:
- Ergonomics is the science of fitting jobs to the people who work in them. In other words, instead of trying to force employees to do things that could cause strain and pain, redesign the job to make it more comfortable and safer to perform.
- Understanding the basic principles of ergonomics will help employees work more safely and avoid injuries caused by lifting, bending, and all the other physical exertions.
Key Points:
At the completion of this module, the participant will be able to:
- Describe the importance of ergonomics
- Define MSDs
- Identify ergonomic risk factors
- Recognize MSD symptoms
- Select appropriate prevention methods for MSDs
- Perform tasks according to ergonomic best practices