Learn about Musculoskeletal Disorders FAQ
Understanding Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs): As per the WHS Regulations, MSDs refer to injuries or diseases affecting the musculoskeletal system, encompassing muscles, ligaments, tendons, and more. These can result from sudden incidents or gradual wear and tear due to repetitive or forceful activities.
Hazardous Manual Tasks: These tasks involve lifting, carrying, or restraining objects, animals, or people, with potential risks including repetitive force, sudden force, repetitive movement, sustained postures, or exposure to vibration. Musculoskeletal injuries from hazardous manual tasks include strains, sprains, tendonitis, and more.
Safe Lifting Practices: Rather than specifying weight limits, the focus is on managing risks associated with hazardous manual tasks. Factors considered include postures, movements, forces, and workplace conditions. Task redesign and mechanical aids are preferred over team lifting, which carries its own risks. Weight limits are not defined in either Part 4.2 of the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 or the Hazardous Manual Tasks Code of Practice 2011 .
Training and Lifting Techniques: Training in lifting techniques alone is not deemed effective. Comprehensive training should cover control measures, work methods, and organizational requirements. Adequate training is crucial for safe job performance. If loads must be handled manually, there are some guidelines in the Hazardous Manual Tasks Code of Practice 2011 .
Pre-existing Conditions: Workplaces must prioritize risk management irrespective of individual factors. Employers can refer workers with health concerns to health professionals for assessments.
Workplace Expectations: With improved technology and a focus on health and safety, workplaces no longer expect excessive physical exertion from workers.
Pre-employment Screening: While pre-employment screening may be suitable for specific tasks, it should not be the sole control measure. The emphasis should be on reducing risks through task modification or engineering changes.
Stretching and Exercises: Stretching programs do not prevent injuries. The primary focus should be on controlling risks by eliminating or modifying hazardous tasks.
Back Belts: Abdominal belts are not considered effective in preventing back injuries. Controlling manual task risks should be the priority. More information can be obtained from the WorkSafe Victoria's Guidance Note: Back belts are not effective in reducing back injuries .
Gym Balls at Workstations: Gym balls are not recommended as office furniture due to instability and lack of adequate support for extended sitting periods. More information can be obtained from the WorkSafe Victoria's Guidance Note: Fitness ball is not suitable as a chair.
Gender and Lifting: Assigning tasks based on gender can indicate hazardous conditions, and workplaces should assess tasks and adopt alternative risk control measures.
Work Conditioning: Recognizing the need for workers to adapt to job demands is essential. Gradual adaptation allows workers to condition themselves to the work environment.
Weight Training at Work: Weight training in a gym differs from workplace lifting, which involves varied conditions and requirements.
Wellness Programs: While beneficial for general wellbeing, wellness programs should complement, not replace, proper manual task risk management.
Understanding Ergonomics: Ergonomics focuses on designing work to suit individuals' physical and mental abilities, aiming for a harmonious fit between people and their tasks.
Participative Ergonomics: Involving workers at all levels in finding solutions to health and safety issues, participative ergonomics helps identify problems effectively and reduces manual task risks. Research supports its efficacy in decreasing injuries and absenteeism.