August 3, 2001—A new study provides the scientific evidence that Congress has been looking for to prove that certain musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) can indeed be attributed to particular jobs and working conditions. The study, conducted by the National Research Council and the Institute of Medicine of the National Academies, links MSDs of the lower back and upper extremities to such tasks and conditions as heavy lifting, repetitive and forceful motions, and stressful work environments. But the panel of experts says the problem can be reduced with well-designed intervention programs.
The study showed a strong relationship between back disorders and jobs where workers manually lift materials, frequently bend and twist their bodies, or experience whole-body vibration from motor vehicles. A rapid work pace, monotonous work, low job satisfaction, little decision-making power, and high levels of job stress also are associated with back disorders.
For upper-extremity disorders, repetition, force, and vibration are important risk factors, the report says. In addition, highly demanding and stressful work environments are consistently associated with the occurrence of this type of MSD.
Among men, those who work as construction laborers, carpenters, and operators of industrial truck or tractor equipment are at the highest risk for developing MSDs. For women, the highest-risk jobs are in nursing or nursing support, and in domestic or commercial cleaning and janitorial work.
Scientific evidence and industry data strongly indicate that properly implemented strategies can reduce the incidence and severity of work-related MSDs. Successful programs must be tailored to specific workplaces, and must take into account procedures, equipment, and characteristics specific to the organization.
The study, sponsored by the US Department of Health and Human Services, attempted to answer seven questions posed by Congress in House Report 105-635. The 512-page report, Musculoskeletal Disorders and the Workplace: Low Back and Upper Extremities, is viewable online at the National Academy Press (NAP) site. The entire report is also available for purchase online.
