When most people think about workplace injuries, they often picture sudden incidents like falls, burns, or equipment malfunctions. But some of the most common and costly workplace injuries develop gradually over time, and repetitive strain injury (RSI) is one of them.
RSI refers to a range of musculoskeletal conditions caused by repetitive tasks, sustained awkward positions, or overuse of muscles and tendons. Left unaddressed, these injuries can lead to chronic pain, reduced productivity, and long-term disability claims.
In this post, we’ll break down what RSI is, how it affects employees, and what employers can do to reduce the risk.
What Is Repetitive Strain Injury?
Repetitive strain injury (RSI) refers to any injury to muscles, tendons, or nerves caused by repetitive motions or sustained strain. It’s commonly associated with tasks like typing, assembly line work, lifting, or any activity that involves repetitive movement or prolonged awkward positioning.
Some common examples of RSI include:
- Tendonitis
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Bursitis
- Tennis elbow
- Rotator cuff injuries
While RSI can affect any part of the body, it’s most commonly found in the hands, wrists, arms, shoulders, neck, and upper back.
How Repetitive Strain Injury Affects Workplaces
According to the Association of Workers’ Compensation Boards of Canada (AWCBC), musculoskeletal injuries, including RSI, account for over 40% of time-loss claims nationwide. These injuries significantly affect both employee well-being and business operations.
The costs of RSI in the workplace include:
- Lost productivity due to modified duties, medical leave, or decreased work capacity
- Increased workers’ compensation claims and premiums
- Higher turnover if injuries lead to dissatisfaction or the inability to continue in a role
- Legal risks if the employer fails to identify and control workplace hazards, as required under provincial Occupational Health and Safety legislation
Risk Factors for RSI in the Workplace
Certain job tasks and working conditions increase the risk of RSI, such as:
- Repetitive motions with little variation
- Poor ergonomics, like awkward or static postures
- Excessive force
- High-paced work with few rest breaks
- Cold environments, which can aggravate muscle and tendon strain
RSI impacts both office-based and industrial workplaces, from office workers using poorly set-up workstations to manufacturing employees performing repetitive assembly line tasks.
How Employers Can Help Prevent RSI
Under provincial occupational health and safety laws, employers are required to take every reasonable precaution to protect workers’ health and safety — including preventing musculoskeletal injuries like RSI.
1. Conduct Risk Assessments
Identify tasks with repetitive movements, awkward postures, or forceful exertions. Risk assessments should consider who may be affected and how.
2. Improve Workstation Ergonomics
Ensure workstations and tools are adjusted to suit each worker’s needs. This might include adjustable chairs, monitor risers, ergonomic keyboards, and anti-fatigue mats.
3. Rotate Job Tasks
Minimize repetitive strain by rotating workers between different tasks throughout the day, reducing prolonged exposure to the same motions.
4. Introduce Rest Breaks and Stretching
Incorporate scheduled micro-breaks and encourage simple stretching exercises to reduce tension and muscle fatigue.
5. Provide Training
Educate workers on the risks of RSI, the signs and symptoms to watch for, and safe work techniques. Regularly refresh this training.
6. Respond Promptly to Early Symptoms
Encourage employees to report discomfort early and offer modified duties or ergonomic adjustments before an injury worsens.
Time to Act
Repetitive strain injuries are common — but also preventable — in Canadian workplaces. By taking a proactive approach to ergonomics and risk management, employers can protect their workers’ health, reduce claims, and meet their legal obligations under occupational health and safety laws.
If you haven’t conducted an ergonomics or musculoskeletal risk assessment recently, now’s the time to take action.
Our HR and Health & Safety consultants are here to help you identify risks, improve your procedures, and provide the documentation you need to stay compliant. Contact us today to get started!
