RSI

Workers in many industries are vulnerable to repetitive strain injuries (RSI). RSI is caused by repetitive motions carried out over long periods of time, working in an awkward posture, or using your body with repeated force. RSI is commonly noticed in the hands, fingers, wrists and shoulders. Pain is caused by inflammation of the tendons and tendon-muscle attachemets. Common symptoms include tingling, numbness, loss of feeling and weakness.  RSI may also be called tendonitis, tenosynovitis, and carpal tunnel syndrome.

What jobs are at highest risk for RSI?

• Product packaging
• Electronic assembly
• Poultry processing and packing
• Manual sewing
• Heavy scrubbing and other cleaning tasks
• Screw driving (manually or with an air gun)
• Keyboard operations
• Stamping, checking and sorting

How can I prevent RSI from occurring?

One of the most important ways to prevent RSI injuries, is to make sure the work areas are customized to the individual worker. Proper ergonomics is the single most effective way of reducing your chances of suffering from RSI.

Be aware of the positions and movements of your hands and wrists as you work. Try to alternate jobs or change positions often in order to relieve strain from repetitive motions.

Your work area should be designed for you and your needs (desk height, chair height, tool size, etc.)

Tools and equipment should be light, balanced and sized right for you

Tool handles should be bent (whenever possible) so your wrists can stay at a neutral angle and in a comfortable position.

Whenever possible, keep your lower arm close to your body and supported; your doctor may advise the use of wrist supports to prevent the damage caused by twisting motions