An Outcomes Study of an Occupational Medicine Intervention Program for the Reduction of Musculoskeletal Disorders and Cumulative Trauma Disorders in the Workplace

Abstract

Upper-extremity musculoskeletal pains or disorders (MSDs) account for a significant number of work-related illnesses in the US workforce. Although the concept of MSD prevention is appealing, little has been done to demonstrate the successful application and benefit of these programs. In 1995, an aircraft manufacturer established a unique risk-management program based on the individual risk assessment (CtdMAP) for new hires. The MSD intervention program was designed to prospectively evaluate each new employee for their individual risk of developing MSDs in the workplace. Before job placement, individuals at higher risk were assigned to a period of transitional work. Workers' compensation costs decreases per year were 16%, 3%, 24%, and 12%, while work hours increased by 56%. Employer-estimated savings in direct workers' compensation costs per year were $469,990, $678,337, $1,936,105, and $1,995,759.