WMSD's, Work Space Design and Hand Tools

How can work space design help prevent work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) resulting from the improper use of hand tools?

Tool selection is of critical importance for user safety, comfort and health. However even the best tool on the market will not transform a poorly designed workstation into a safe and comfortable one for the operator.

Many work space components such as work surfaces, seats, flooring, tools, equipment, environmental conditions, etc., determine whether or not the job is safe and healthy. If the workplace design does not meet your physical needs, it can create risk factors for discomfort, aches and pains, fatigue, and eventually, WMSDs. Special care needs to be taken to select the correct ergonomic workspace enhancers such anti-fatigue matting, lift tables, lift assists, adjustable workbenches to name a few.

In a well-designed workplace, where you have the opportunity to choose from a variety of well-balanced working positions and to change between them frequently, work can be carried out safely and injury-free.