Shellfish Processing Industry in Eastern Canada
Shellfish species Processed in Eastern Canada
Map of Shellfish Processors in Eastern CanadaOccupational Health and Safety in Shellfish Processing
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WORK-RELATED MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS
This section is under construction. Stay tuned for new resources and tools.
Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) can affect many different parts of your body such as your back, shoulders, and wrists. They may be the result of one injury (such as a slip or fall) or can occur over a period of time (referred to as a cumulative trauma disorder). Work-related musculoskeletal disorders are injuries or disorders of the muscles, joints, ligaments, tendons, nerves, blood vessels, or cartilage that are caused or aggrevated by work. Some common examples include back pain, sprains, strains, tendonitis, and carpal tunnel syndrome.
Other popular names for musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) include:
- Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI)
- Soft Tissue Injuries (STI)
- Musculo-skeletal Injuries (MSI)
- Cumulative Trauma Disorders (CTD)
Common symptoms include:
- aches and pains
- numbness or tingling
- swelling
- fatigue
- muscle weakness
Common causes include:
- repetitive motions or long working hours
- awkward or static postures
- lifting, lowering, or carrying
- pushing, pulling, or bending
- vibration
- reaching or twisting
- working in hot or cold environment
- poorly designed workstation or tools
- slips, trips, or falls
In many cases musculoskeletal disorders can be prevented. Sometimes prevention can be as easy as stretching, job rotation, more frequent breaks, risk assessments, or workstation adjustment.
WMSDs can sometimes be treated with the application of cold or heat, medication, physiotherapy, massage therapy, or surgery. Some injuries or disorders are more severe than others. It is important to take care of your body to help prevent further pain or injury.
Work-related musculoskeletal disorders are a problem for employers as well as workers. Workers with MSDs tend to have reduced productivity and increased absenteeism.
Musculoskeletal Publications
Ergonomics in the Work Environment: A Manual for Workers by CAW
Survey – Ergonomics in the Workplace by NSSC
Guidelines for the Prevention of Soft Tissue Injuries by WHSCC & the Government of NL
Links for Musculoskeletal Disorders
Musculotskeletal Disorders - Risk Factors
Lifting/Manual Material Handling (MMH)
Working in a Standing Position
Pushing and Pulling
Workspace Design
Hand Tool Design
Conveyor Ergonomics
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