Identifying the Real Issues in Work-Related Upper Limb Disorders

This paper describes how the basic aim of ergonomics, or human factors as it is referred to in some countries, is to provide the worker with an optimum, safe environment. Although ergonomics can be applied to any aspect of human life, it tends to be viewed in the work context. It allows a scientific foundation for a user-centered approach to design and offers significant benefits to any organization. In very simple terms, ergonomics enables the development of an effective match between the person, the task, and the environment. Because this ergonomics approach is so positive and practical, it is shocking that it is neglected in so many facilities. People are frequently required to interact with equipment, machinery, tools, and systems without any thought as to the “fit” between the individual and his or her surroundings. As a consequence of such short-sightedness, people are exposed to working conditions that can cause harm. One of the more commonly recognized signs that the individual might be working in an unsuitable work environment is the development of an upper limb disorder (ULD), also known in some countries as cumulative trauma disorder (CTD). This chapter is dedicated to the discussion of ULDs. It considers the work-related causes of the conditions and early warning signs that should alert an employer to an individual’s difficulties. It also reviews the employer’s expected state of knowledge and how the potential for harm can be identified long before an individual starts to experience difficulties. Although significant overlap in the application of sound ergonomics principles occurs with all types of environments, this chapter will separately refer to office-based organizations and industrial/factory-type environments because each of these facilities has its own unique issues to address.