This is an archive of news stories and research from the National Union of Public and General Employees. Please see our new site - https://nupge.ca - for the most current information.
In 2010, across Canada, 2.3 million people, or one in every 10 adults, suffered from these injuries, also known as musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).
Ottawa (28 February 2011) - Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) Awareness Day helps raise awareness among workers and employers about this type of injury and the risks associated with repetitive work. Unfortunately, many workers are unaware that their aches and pains may be caused by repetitive work and these injuries are 100% avoidable.
These painful injuries affect not only muscles but also tendons, nerves and joints and are very real. The discomfort and pain caused by these injuries can worsen and increase the risk of more permanent and crippling disabilities.
With one out of every ten Canadians suffering from RSI, it is clear that employers have work to do on this occupational health & safety file. Employers must increase investment in the prevention of RSIs and workers must demand that employers adjust workstations to eliminate this type strain as soon as it is felt.
When employers don't act, the public health care system ends up carrying the financial burden. In Ontario, RSI sufferers are the biggest users of the Ontario health insura(OHIP). This massive transfer of financial responsibility can be avoided if health and safety committees in each workplace identified RSI hazards and acted, before injuries occurred.
Employers have access to the preventative tools
A variety of simple desktop programs and applications are available to help workers avoid RSIs and, in many cases, stretching and frequent breaks are the best preventative actions. Ergonomic sciences have designed equipment and furniture for all kinds of work tasks. Managing repetitive tasks to prevent injury is simply a matter of commitment to an injury free workplace.
NUPGE
The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) is one of Canada's largest labour organizations with over 340,000 members. Our mission is to improve the lives of working families and to build a stronger Canada by ensuring our common wealth is used for the common good. NUPGE
More Information:
Ontario RSI Day activities - registration
WorkSafe BC - RSI research tool
Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety