Cures for the common converting workplace injuries

Bend, lift, twist and push, and repeat. These may sound like instructions for an aerobics class, but these can be motions for converting operations, too. The difference between the two is that the class is probably only an hour, and the weights lifted are less than 10 lbs. Converters, however, deal with these movements all day and lift items like steel shafts that can weight up to 120 lbs.

Movements such as repetitive exertions of the hand, heavy lifting or pushing, and prolonged awkward postures, are all risk factors for work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD). WMSDs range from mild symptoms to severe debilitating conditions. Examples include carpal tunnel syndrome, tension neck syndrome and low back pain.

Along with distress, WMSDs also cause temporary or permanent disability, which can lead to lost time from work and an increase in workers compensation costs. One way converters can prevent WMSDs and the related costs is through ergonomics. (Via Converting Magazine)