Musculoskeletal Disorders: Prevention

They’re known by different names, but work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs, or just MSDs) have one thing very much in common: they can cause discomfort, fatigue, pain and injury among workers.

MSDs are often caused by work that involves repetitive motion, forceful movements and awkward body postures that are done or held for periods of time. Mainly the wrists, back, legs, shoulders, neck, muscles and joints are affected. This course focuses on how sound ergonomics and work organization can help prevent MSDs.

Ideal for workers in both offices and industry, this course covers the causes of MSDs, the use of ergonomic principles in preventing injuries in the workplace and the importance of having an ergonomically focused training program. The course also features case studies, review quizzes, questions and answers, and can be used as a practical resource for participants in employee training sessions.

Those who score at least 80 per cent on the final exam will be able to print a certificate of completion.

This course is offered free of charge by the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) to promote awareness of this important issue. It complements

Topics include:

• hazard identification
• examining evidence of MSDs
• risk assessment
• developing and implementing controls
• job hazard analysis
• education and training
• program evaluation and audits
• recommending changes

Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:

• Identify the causes of MSDs.
• Understand the basic elements of workplace ergonomics.
• Identify ergonomic hazards in order to prevent injuries.
• Develop an ergonomics program and set goals for your workplace.
• Develop training and education tools.
• Involve managers and employees in the program.

Average time to complete this course is about 60 minutes.

Target audience

• managers, supervisors and workers
• employees working from home
• occupational health nurses, occupational therapists and chiropractors
• health and safety representatives/professionals

Pre-requisite

None

Delivery method

This is an e-learning course. All you need is a computer, access to the internet and you are ready to go! This e-learning course lets you learn at your own pace, in your own environment and at your convenience.