Musculoskeletal Disorder Prevention Flashcards

In the context of MSD prevention, what does the term 'recovery time' refer to?

Answer: The time needed for metabolic waste products to clear and tissue to restore capacity between exertions

Recovery time is the rest or low-demand period required between exertions for musculoskeletal tissue to clear metabolic byproducts and restore mechanical capacity, preventing cumulative fatigue.

Which of the following is the correct hierarchy for controlling MSD hazards, from most to least preferred?

Answer: Elimination → Engineering controls → Administrative controls → PPE

OSHA's hierarchy of controls places Elimination first (most effective), followed by Engineering controls, Administrative controls, and PPE (least effective) last.

A construction worker frequently carries 40-lb loads with the load held 18 inches in front of the spine. Compared to carrying the same load 6 inches from the spine, the spinal compressive force is approximately:

Answer: Significantly increased due to the longer moment arm

Spinal compressive force equals load × moment arm; doubling the horizontal distance triples the torque, dramatically increasing lumbar disc compression and MSD risk.

Which psychosocial factor has been consistently associated with increased MSD risk in occupational studies?

Answer: Low social support from supervisors and coworkers

Low social support from supervisors and coworkers is a well-documented psychosocial risk factor that increases MSD risk, likely through elevated muscle tension and reduced early symptom reporting.

A standing assembly worker reports low back discomfort after extended shifts. Which workstation modification would MOST directly reduce lumbar loading?

Answer: Providing a footrest or rail to allow alternating one-foot elevation

Elevating one foot on a rail or footrest reduces lumbar lordosis and redistributes compressive forces on the lumbar spine, directly reducing low back discomfort in standing workers.

The 'Borg CR10 Scale' used in ergonomic assessments measures:

Answer: Perceived exertion or perceived intensity of physical effort

The Borg CR10 Scale is a validated self-report tool measuring perceived exertion on a 0–10 scale, widely used in ergonomics to assess subjective physical workload.

Which of the following shoulder disorders is most commonly associated with sustained overhead work above shoulder height?

Answer: Rotator cuff tendinopathy or impingement syndrome

Overhead work narrows the subacromial space, increasing impingement of the rotator cuff tendons and bursa, making rotator cuff tendinopathy the most prevalent MSD in overhead workers.