That's a little like asking how many cigarettes someone must smoke before they get lung cancer. We also know that multiple risk factors such as awkward postures and heavy force add to the risk, increasing the likelihood of injury. The corollary is that reducing these risk factors leads to fewer work-related MSDs. It doesn't have to be an exact science for you and me to know some things we can do to prevent ergonomic injuries. In fact, most work-related MSDs can be prevented by a sound ergonomics program.
Workers avoid pain and disability, and employers save money and increase productivity.
A recent General Accounting Office report analyzing five companies found that ergonomics programs led to reductions in overall injuries and illnesses as well as in the number of days that injured employees were out of work. All five worksites cut workers' compensation costs after establishing ergonomics programs, and they reported improved worker morale, productivity, and product quality. Many companies have proven that effective ergonomics programs pay off. Companies in the grocery business have also succeeded. Take Food Markets Northwest in Seattle.