Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSD)

Musculoskeletal Disorders and Ergonomics in Mining

The principles of ergonomics recognize the mining workforce's diversity. The physical diversity of people in mining involves differences in height, weight, gender, age and the general ability to work under a variety of stresses, whether in an office setting or in the field. Prevention of work-related MSD is achieved by applying the principles of ergonomics to a broad spectrum of employees. 

The ultimate goal of implementing ergonomics and MSD prevention is to eliminate and reduce workplace injury risk for musculoskeletal disorders by recognizing, evaluating and controlling risk factors.

Musculoskeletal Disorders

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) include injury or disorder of the muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, nerves, blood vessels or related soft tissue including sprain, strain and inflammation. Some typical work-related musculoskeletal disorders are tendonitis, hand-arm vibration syndrome, and back strains and sprains.

The Health Safety and Reclamation Code for Mines in British Columbia outlines requirements for MSD Prevention, hazard identification and control at mines in B.C.