Ontario will be participating in several activities during Global Ergonomics Month in October to prevent workplace hazards that could lead to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).

MSDs are injuries and disorders of the musculoskeletal system, including muscles, tendons, nerves and spinal discs. MSDs can develop due to prolonged exposure to repetitive work, forceful exertions such as lifting, pulling and pushing heavy objects or equipment and awkward or sustained posture.

MSDs are the number-one type of injury that causes employees to miss work, as reported to the Ontario Workplace Safety and Insurance Board. This month, Ministry of Labour inspectors will target MSD hazards while visiting health care workplaces, focusing on areas such as kitchen and food services, janitorial and housekeeping, laundry, pharmacy, laboratories and medical clinics as part of a three-year health care enforcement program.

Workplace health and safety associations will also participate in Global Ergonomics Month by publishing articles on MSDs, hosting conferences, webinars and lectures, and offering various learning and training events on the subject.

Ontario’s participation in Global Ergonomics Month is part of the government’s commitment to keep workers safe on the job by preventing MSD hazards.

“We hope to raise awareness of MSD hazards and prevent injuries in the workplace,” said George Gritziolis, chief prevention officer, in a press release. “We want to improve the health and safety of all workers, particularly those who work in the health care sector.”