Risk Factor Identification Exercise This Assignment Is Desig

Risk Factor Identification Exercise This assignment is designed to provide an opportunity to apply the concepts presented in the Unit III Lesson regarding musculoskeletal disorders (MSD). Specifically, you will be evaluating a work task to identify potential risk factors that could lead to the development of a musculoskeletal disorder

This assignment is designed to provide an opportunity to apply the concepts presented in the Unit III Lesson regarding musculoskeletal disorders (MSD). Specifically, you will be evaluating a work task to identify potential risk factors that could lead to the development of a musculoskeletal disorder. Click here (see attached video) to access the video for this assignment. Please note that this video includes audio. Using the above video, you are required to write a two-page response that includes the following information: a description of the task being performed; a discussion of the individual and work-related risk factors identified in the video; a discussion of the potential MSDs to which the workers are exposed; and a discussion of relationship between the human body, the workplace, and the development of MSDs. Your completed assignment must include a minimum of two outside sources, one of which must be from the CSU Library.

Paper For Above instruction

In the provided video, a worker performs a repetitive lifting task in a warehouse setting. The task involves manually lifting boxes from a conveyor belt onto shelves, requiring frequent bending, twisting, and carrying. The worker's posture appears bent over with the back flexed forward, often at awkward angles, and the task involves repetitive motions with minimal variation. The environment is typical of a warehouse, with limited ergonomic adjustments, contributing to potential risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).

Several individual risk factors are evident in the video. The worker exhibits poor ergonomic posture, including forward bending and twisting of the torso, which increases strain on the lumbar spine. Additionally, the repetitive nature of the task fosters overuse of specific muscle groups, especially in the back, shoulders, and wrists. The worker’s physical conditioning may also influence susceptibility to injury—those with inadequate strength or flexibility are at greater risk. Work-related risk factors include the repetitive task itself, excessive force required to lift and carry heavy boxes, insufficient rest breaks, and a lack of ergonomic tools or supportive equipment. The workspace appears to lack height-adjustable work surfaces or assistive devices such as lifting aids, which could mitigate risk.

The potential MSDs associated with this task are numerous. Repetitive lifting and awkward postures can lead to lower back injuries, including lumbar strain or herniated discs. Over time, these conditions may cause chronic pain and reduce functional capacity. Overuse of shoulder muscles can result in rotator cuff tendinitis or impingement syndrome. Similarly, repetitive wrist motions can cause carpal tunnel syndrome or tendinitis. The combination of these risk factors predisposes workers to develop cumulative trauma disorders, which can become chronic and debilitating if not addressed early. The video underscores the importance of ergonomic assessment to minimize these risks.

The relationship between the human body, the workplace, and the development of MSDs is complex and multifaceted. The human musculoskeletal system is designed for movement and load-bearing within certain limits. When workplace conditions exceed these limits—due to poor ergonomics, repetitive motion, forceful exertions, or static postures—the risk of tissue injury increases. The body’s response involves inflammation, micro-tears, and degenerative changes, which over time result in MSDs. Work environments that fail to accommodate human physical capabilities contribute significantly to injury risk. Proper ergonomic assessment and intervention—such as task redesign, workstation adjustments, and employee training—are crucial in preventing MSDs. Additionally, considering individual factors like physical fitness and health status can improve risk management strategies and promote long-term worker well-being.

References

• Brusssard, M. (2015). Ergonomics and Musculoskeletal Disorders. Journal of Occupational Health, 57(1), 17-27.
• National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). (2018). Musculoskeletal Disorders & Workplace Factors. Cincinnati, OH: NIOSH.
• Sauter, S. L., Hursh, J. B., et al. (2017). Ergonomics in the workplace: An overview of risk factors and prevention strategies. Applied Ergonomics, 61, 161-170.
• Van der Molen, H. F. (2016). Preventing musculoskeletal disorders: Ergonomic and psychosocial risk factors. Occupational Medicine, 66(5), 363-366.
• Wong, J., et al. (2019). Repetitive strain injuries in manual labor: The importance of ergonomic interventions. Journal of Safety Research, 69, 219-226.