Ergonomic hazard

Ergonomic hazards are physical conditions that may pose risk of injury to the musculoskeletal system, such as the muscles or ligaments of the lower back, tendons or nerves of the hands/wrists, or bones surrounding the knees, resulting in a musculoskeletal disorder (MSD). Ergonomic hazards include awkward postures, static postures, large forces, repetitive motion, or short intervals between activity. The risk of MSD is often magnified when multiple factors are present or when whole-body or hand/arm vibration, poor lighting, or poorly designed tools, equipment, or workstations produce additional negative interactions with the worker/user. Ergonomic hazards occur in both occupational and non-occupational settings such as in workshops, building sites, offices, home, school, or public spaces and facilities. 