Repetitive motions involving the wrists and hands often put workers at risk for carpal tunnel syndrome. This cumulative trauma disorder occurs when tendons in the wrist become inflamed. Workers are often at risk of injury unless they take periodic breaks from the activity or find ways to reduce the stress and repetition of the job. Besides helping prevent injuries in the workplace, EWAS can also be used to boost productivity. Although it's initially being tested in poultry plants, EWAS can be used in a variety of industries.
Mobility is another major benefit.
Because of its compact size, EWAS can easily be taken into a plant so that testing can be done in the actual environment, rather than having to replicate the environment in the laboratory. Laboratory testing has its benefits, but there is also a downside. The next thing you know, you're taking interesting data, but it really has nothing to do with what workers do every day on the factory floor. For more information, you may contact Dr. Robert Gregor, Department of Health and Performance Science, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332-0110.