Ergonomics and Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) in the Workplace A Forensic and Epidemiological Analysis

Whether you call them work-related upper limb disorders (WRULDs), cumulative trauma disorders (CTDS), or occupational overuse syndromes (OOSs), these conditions are a cause of pain, disability and suffering to workers worldwide. These designations often imply that their causes are related to work, but the supporting evidence can be unclear. Transparency is important, especially when it is necessary to form a connection with work factors to obtain treatment or compensation. This book addresses the dilemma.

Written by a professional ergonomist with almost 40 years of experience in workplace ergonomics, this book combines a critical summary and assessment of the epidemiological literature with an exploration of the scientific and medical evidence for possible causal mechanisms to develop well-informed conclusions on causation of a number of common musculoskeletal disorders of the upper limb and intervertebral disc injury.

Although much of the book focuses on physical factors, the role of psychosocial factors is increasingly being recognized and an additional chapter reviews a number of the current theories relating to this important issue.

Features

• Focuses on a clear and authoritative account of the evidence for the role of work in the causation of commonly occurring ULDs and disc injury
• Provides an up-to-date compilation of the scientific evidence, devoid of views based on assumptions or prejudice
• Presents a clear explanation of the most likely causal mechanisms for common ULDs and disc injuries
• Includes a summary of theories concerning the role played by psychosocial factors
• Outlines the statistical evidence in a clear and understandable manner
• Bridges the gap between the evidence-base in the scientific and medical research literature and the practitioner

Introduction. Description of the Systematic Evidence-based Approach. Psychosocial and Cultural Factors. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis). Supraspinatus Tendinitis. Non-specific Arm Pain (RSI). Injuries to Intervertebral Discs. Application of the Approach. The Future.

Dr Richard Graveling - Principal Ergonomics Consultant

Dr Graveling has the benefit of over 35 years of experience of work as an ergonomist and is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Ergonomics and Human Factors (of which he is currently Past President). He is a member of an IOM team which holds a contract with the European Parliament to provide independent expert advice on a variety of emerging issues in the field of Health and Safety at Work to its Committee on Employment and Social Affairs, has recently co-authored a report on the health and safety risks facing vulnerable groups of workers for this committee and is currently the project leader on further work relating to stress at work.

In his time at the IOM, musculoskeletal disorders, in particular back injuries from manual handling and work-related upper limb disorders, have formed a major focus of both his research (including studies into the epidemiology of both back pain and upper limb disorders) and consultancy activities.

All of this research experience underpins practical experience in advising companies on the identification and reduction of manual handling and ULD risk factors in the workplace. Previous clients include the Scottish Government, Scottish Ombudsman, Scottish Water, Chevron Oil, Cairn Energy, Rolls Royce, and many others.