The RMI section of OSH Answers has more information on general ergonomic RMI risk factors . Aggravating factors for RMIs are the low room temperature and the temperature of the meat. Cold affects dexterity and increases the effort needed. This extra effort can cause earlier fatigue. In addition, lifting heavy boxes and prolonged standing on a hard floor pose a risk for low back pain and lower leg discomfort.
Workers carry the meat to be processed from the storage room to the work bench.
In this supermarket, the work surfaces that were too low or high and improperly arranged work areas cause workers to use poor working postures. The low temperatures and contact with cold meat also contribute to the development of injuries. Working while standing on a hard floor can cause lower leg aches and low back pain which over time can develop into injuries. The meat wrapping operation requires a continual repetition of movements. The time to complete the task varies according to the wrapper's skills and whether there is a double wrapping and sealing.