Risks due to physical activity in the workplace
DAMAGE TO THE MUSCULOSKELETAL SYSTEM
MSDs are characterized by soft tissue damage such as muscles, tendons, nerves, ligament, blood vessels, bursae and cartilage. They can be detected following the onset of symptoms such as pain/discomfort, numbness and/or tingling, loss of flexibility and/or strength.
They often stem from a combination of different factors, such as the repetitiveness of gestures or efforts, linked to work organization. There are also psychosocial risk factors, such as time pressure, lack of social support, lack of autonomy and participation, and value conflicts. In the context of physical activity, 60-70% of employees suffer from low-back pain.
In repetitive tasks, disorders of the musculoskeletal system are generally triggered by a combination of factors: short, repetitive movements, high speed of movement, high demands on strength, poor joint positions and tiring types of gripping, unsuitable work equipment, vibrations, long-duration tasks, lack of breaks, cold temperatures and stress.
FATIGUE AND PAIN
Physical fatigue is considered to be a "progressive inability to perform a task" due to a reduction in strength, speed or movement capacities. Such fatigue can impair motor function, and therefore the control of postures and gestures performed in the course of professional activity. This can lead to consequences ranging from errors to accidents.
VASCULAR DAMAGE
Heart-related pathologies are more likely to occur in workers who have physically demanding occupations. They are also influenced by other factors such as lack of support, poor job control and monotonous work. Peripheral vascular pathologies are also more common in occupations where vibration-producing tools are used, and among workers who maintain a prolonged standing position (laboratory work, etc.).