February 28th was Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) Awareness Day and the Workers Compensation Board encourages all Islanders to celebrate by finding ways to avoid injury on the job.

The term, repetitive strain injury, refers to a host of soft tissues injuries of the muscles, tendons and nerves, such astendonitis, bursitis and carpal tunnel syndrome. These injuries most often affect the upper extremities, and risk factors can include repetitive motion, high force, sustained awkward postures, excessive vibration and extreme cold temperatures.

“Safety at work is a priority for the Workers Compensation Board,” said Nancy Guptill, Workers Compensation Board Chair. “As awareness is an important step to preventing injury, we urge all Islanders to learn about ways to reduce the risk of repetitive strain.”

To help prevent repetitive strain in the workplace, the Workers Compensation Board recommends the
following:

o Incorporate regular rest and stretch breaks into the work day.
o Vary or rotate job tasks to change positions and to avoid overuse of any one body part.
o Minimize awkward postures by adjusting work heights, decreasing reaching distances and
organizing work stations.
o Modify the work area and equipment to avoid pressing against hard or sharp surfaces.
o Limit high forces by using appropriate tools, such as carts or hoists.
o Reduce the size of loads and carrying distances.
o Limit exposure to cold temperatures and ensure adequate clothing is worn for the work climate.

For more information on safety matters and preventing injury in the workplace, visit the WCB website at
www.wcb.pe.ca or contact the Workers Compensation Board Office at 902-368-5680 or 1-800-237-5049 (toll free
in Atlantic Canada).