Workers who use technology to prevent musculoskeletal disorders on the job reduced concern about injury, improved posture and greater awareness of risks that lead to pain and strain, according to a study by the National Safety Council.
Researchers surveyed 405 non-managerial workers across industries, including manufacturing, construction, healthcare and transportation and warehousing.
The report, Frontline Worker Perceptions of MSD Prevention Technology, shows nearly 70% of respondents said they experience job-related musculoskeletal disorder symptoms. The research also shows that when the technologies are well implemented, they can make a difference.
Devices that provide direct physical support, such as exoskeletons and robots, were most strongly associated with reduced symptoms. Wearable sensors and computer vision also helped workers identify ergonomic risks and build safer work habits, according to the report.
Those whose workplaces use robots to aid workplace injury prevention expressed the greatest confidence there were decreases in musculoskeletal disorders signs and symptoms (56%), followed by those whose workplaces use exoskeletons (54%). Across all devices measured, 70% or more reported an improvement in job satisfaction.
The report also showed that when organizations involve workers in selecting and using these devices, results improved.
The report is based on survey data from frontline employees across industries who have used musculoskeletal disorder prevention technologies in their current roles such as:
- Wearable sensors
- Computer vision
- Exoskeletons
- Robots and collaborative robots (cobots)
- Extended reality
- Digital twins
The sample included a nearly even distribution of men and women. Roughly half of the respondents were between ages 18 and 40.
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