UFCW Members and Ergo Injuries
Every year musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) caused by ergonomic hazards account for an estimated 1.8 million injuries. 
MSDs are on the rise in many economic sectors. From 1998 to 1999, lost workday injuries and illness involving musculoskeletal disorders were reported in about half of the industry sectors, including meatpacking, poultry processing, bakery products, numerous textile and garment industries, grocery stores, building services, computer and data processing services and hospitals.
Women workers suffer a disproportionate number of MSDs. Women suffered more than two-thirds of all reported carpal tunnel syndrome cases and 61 percent of reported tendinitis cases in 1999 even though women comprised less than half of the workforce and accounted for one-third of total workplace injuries.
What Are the Risk Factors?
Repetition
Repeating the same motions every few seconds for two hours at a time, or using a keyboard, mouse, or other device steadily for more than four hours daily.
Force
Lifting more than 75 pounds at any one time. Pushing/pulling with more than 20 pounds of initial force (such as pushing a 65-pound box across a floor) for more than two hours a day. Pinching or gripping heavy objects more than two hours a day.
Awkward Postures
Working with the hands above the head for more than two hours per day, or working with the back, neck or wrists bent for more than two hours a day.
Contact Stress
Using the hand as a hammer more than ten times an hour for more than two hours total a day.
Vibration
Using tools or equipment with high vibration levels (such as chainsaws or jackhammers) for more than 30 minutes a day or tools with moderate vibration (such as jigsaws or grinders) for more than two hours a day.
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