reducing unnecessary or awkward postures and forces almost necessarily cuts the time and effort it takes to complete a task. Body motions, visibility, workload, and other important ergonomic parameters will also affect the quality of work and the quality of work product. When a task is matched with the ability of the people who per form it, they make fewer errors and produce less waste. C. Ergonomics, Health, and Safety Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) are injuries and disorders of the muscles, nerves, tendons, ligaments, joints, cartilage, and spinal discs. Examples include rotator cuff tendonitis, herniated or ruptured lumbar discs, and carpal tunnel syndrome. MSDs can be directly and indirectly related to aspects of the work or the work environment known as risk factors. Non-work activities and environments that expose people to these risk factors also can cause or contribute to MSDs. When an MSD is associated with work it is usually referred to as a Work Related Musculoskeletal Disorder (WRMSD or WMSD). Other similar terms include cumulative trauma disorder (CTD), repetitive stress injury (RSI), and repetitive motion injury (RMI). MSD risk factors can be defined as actions in the workplace, workplace conditions, or a combination thereof that may cause or aggravate an MSD. Examples include forceful exertion, awkward postures, repetitive exertion, and exposure to environmental factors such as extreme heat, cold, humidity, or vibration. Often, a combination of these risk factors over time can lead to pain, injury, and disability. These risk factors can be reduced through informed purchasing and workplace