| |
Generally,
CTDs result from a combination or all of
the following factors occurring simultaneously:
- Repetitive
motion
- Done
in an awkward posture
- Using
some force without allowing for sufficient rest.
The
most common CTDs in the workplace are:
- Back
pain (often caused by improper pushing or lifting)
- Tendonitis
(inflammation of tendons)
-
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (a wrist disorder that
often affects people with heavy typing/data
entry responsibilities)
Darcor
is able to reduce and often eliminate CTDs caused
by improper use of force. By reducing the amount
of force required to move a load or object, the
effect on the back of the person pushing the load
is reduced significantly. Darcor wheels and casters
are up to 10 times easier to push than other manufacturer's
products.
What Industries Are Most Affected By CTDs?
1. Motor Vehicles/Equipment Manufacturers 42,600
cases
2. Meat Packing 38,300
3. Aircraft/Parts Mfg. 9,500
4. Men's/Boy's Clothing Makers 7,900
5. Grocery Stores 6,400
The Costs of CTDs
There is no question that workplace injuries are
a major factor in bottom-line profitability around
the world. Ergonomic disorders are the fastest
growing category of work-related illness. According
to the most recent statistics from the U.S. Bureau
of Labor, CTDs account for 56% of illnesses reported
to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
In the United States, employers spend more than
$7.4 billion in workers compensation costs, and
untold billions on medical treatment, litigation
costs, hidden costs and lost productivity. The
Agency for Health Care Policy and Research (part
of the United States Dept. of Health and Human
Services) estimates that 8 of every 10 workers
will eventually be affected by acute lower back
problems.
Moreover, injuries resulting from repeated motion,
pressure or vibration (repetitive/cumulative trauma
disorders - CTDs) are growing. According to recent
annual statistics from the U.S. Survey of Occupational
Injuries and Illnesses, over 302,000 CTDs account
for nearly two-thirds all of workplace-related
illnesses.
back
to top |
