Musculoskeletal system
A workplace health and safety plan is intended to promote the safety, health and well-being of employees. Employers should ensure that the plan is available at all workplaces, regardless of size. The Administration of Occupational Safety and Health in Iceland calls for it in field inspections and digital inspections. The plan includes a written risk assessment and a written health protection and prevention plan.
When carrying out a risk assessment it is necessary to identify risks in the work environment that could potentially threaten the safety, health and well-being of employees, and all aspects of the activity and the work environment must be looked at holistically. In that context it is a good idea to build on the five main elements of occupational safety and health, and specific elements if applicable. However it depends on the nature of the activity how complex each risk factor is in the risk assessment.
Once a risk assessment has been made a health protection and prevention plan is drawn up, which deals with the measures that need to be taken so that the risk can be prevented or reduced as much as possible.
Here we discuss the musculoskeletal system, which is one of the five main elements of occupational safety and health.
General information about work-related musculoskeletal pain
Musculoskeletal disorders are one of the most common causes of absenteeism from work and one of the causes of disability. Employers and employees can jointly try to prevent work conditions from leading to musculoskeletal symptoms and in this regard, it is good to look at environmental factors, equipment and body positioning.
More on work-related musculoskeletal pain
Environmental aspects
Various environmental factors can affect body positioning at work. These include lighting and brightness, indoor air quality, types of flooring, noise and vibration.
Equipment
It is important that tools and equipment are suitable for the tasks being carried out and are suitable for reducing stress. Tools and equipment include tables, chairs, computer equipment, hand tools and assistive devices.
Body positioning
Working conditions must be created that enable employees to work in suitable postures that can be adapted to each individual and offer variety.
This includes addressing issues such as monotonous strain, working height, standing and sitting work, computer work, and tasks performed above shoulder height or below knee level.
Additionally, you can find posters with good advice on body positioning in construction.
When heavy lifting is required
The employer must implement organizational measures or provide appropriate aids to prevent employees from lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling heavy loads. If these tasks cannot be avoided, assistive devices should be utilized, and staff should receive training and education on their proper use and correct body posture.
In this discussion, we will cover the physical challenges of heavy lifting, associated risk factors, and practical advice. Additionally, we will address considerations for pregnant individuals, children, and teenagers regarding weightlifting.
More on when lifting heavy weights
Fall at work
Falls in the work environment are among the most common occupational accidents reported to the Administration of Occupational Safety and Health. These risks include falls on a level surface as well as falls from heights. The accidents can have serious consequences. Here the main causes of falls at work are discussed and how to prevent them.
Service provider
Administration of Occupational Safety and Health