Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs)
Musculoskeletal disorders are injuries to muscles, tendons, nerves and joints: bad backs, worn-out shoulders, bad knees and carpal tunnel. They’re among the most common causes of lost work time in construction and industry, and they can end careers. Most build up slowly and can be prevented.
- All trades
- Warehouses
- Manufacturing
Photo: drywall installer using a panel lift to raise a ceiling sheet instead of holding it overhead
Common MSDs
- Low back strains and disc injuries
- Shoulder injuries, including rotator cuff tears
- Knee problems from kneeling and squatting
- Carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis and trigger finger
- Neck strain from looking up for long periods
Risk factors
| Risk factor | Examples |
|---|---|
| Force | Lifting heavy materials, pushing carts, gripping tools hard |
| Repetition | Tying rebar, driving screws, scanning packages |
| Awkward posture | Working overhead, bending at the waist, kneeling, twisting |
| Vibration | Breakers, grinders, compactors, driving heavy equipment |
| Contact stress | Hard edges pressing on palms or forearms, kneeling on concrete |
| Cold | Reduces grip and blood flow, adding to the strain |
The more of these that combine, and the longer they last, the higher the risk.
Practical fixes
- Use the equipment: carts, dollies, panel lifts, vacuum lifters, forklifts and hoists instead of muscle.
- Raise the work: set materials and benches at waist height; use stands and sawhorses.
- Avoid overhead work: use lifts and extension poles so the work is closer. Use drill stands for overhead drilling.
- Order smaller packages: like 50-pound instead of 94-pound bags of cement.
- Use the right tools: rebar tying tools, auto-feed screw guns, low-vibration tools. See Ergonomic Hand Tools.
- Rotate tasks and take short breaks during repetitive work.
- Use knee pads and change positions often. See Knee Protection.
Report early
- Pain, aching or burning that lasts after work or wakes you at night
- Numbness or tingling in hands or feet
- Stiffness or loss of motion
- Weakness or dropping things
Early care and job changes work far better than waiting until you can’t work. See Lifting & Ergonomics and Stretch & Flex.
Standards & references
Last updated: