---> Musculoskeletal system

OSH Professional

2: Healthy workplaces for all ages

---> Musculoskeletal system

Reduced mobility and stiffer joints, increased bone fragilityPotential impact at work:
  • May impact jobs where people use a wide range of movements.
  • Jobs where manual handling is involved.
  • Increased risk of musculoskeletal injuries, as older workers may be working nearer to their own maximal levels.
  • Increase risk of bone fractures.
Addressing the changes through safety and health management:
  • Identify where groups or individuals are having difficulties. For example, tracking musculoskeletal pain and discomfort in the workforce associated with particular tasks or workstations.
  • Avoid repetitive work by incorporating job rotation and allow regular (short) breaks.
  • Avoid fixed postures (prolonged sitting or standing).
  • Design work to allow movement and postural change. Also, avoid prolonged bending and other extreme demands on the joints.
  • Provide tools that are designed to fit the task and user.
Reduction in muscle strength and endurance (a loss of around 20-40% between the ages of 20 and 60 years)Potential impact at work:
  • Might have implications for physically demanding jobs where high levels of strength are required.
  • Jobs where manual handling is involved. 
  • Increased risk of musculoskeletal injuries, as older workers may be working nearer to their own maximal capacity.
Addressing the changes through safety and health management:
  • Avoid fixed postures (either standing or sitting) and design movement into work tasks.
  • Avoid tasks that require twisting the torso while lifting. Ensure objects are lifted from waist level.
  • Ensure that work activity is carried out between the thighs and shoulders (avoiding bending and lifting).
  • Consider lifting aids or other ways of reducing loading.
  • Schedule frequent (short) breaks.
  • Adapt the workplace to allow effective movement of workers (clear path, accessible storage, accessible tools).
  • Provide grip-friendly tools.
  • Provide long-handled tools to reduce bending.
  • Provide guidelines and training for: lifting, sitting, standing, bending and stretching.