Helpful Information for Musculoskeletal Disorders for Foundries

Nov 05, 2014

Source: HazCommpliance LLC

When we think of foundries, we often think of hazardous environments with high risks associated with heat, molten metal, vapors, dust, fumes and dangerous machinery. It is important to control risks associated with these issues, however according to OSHA, employees who work in foundries are exposed to a higher rate of musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) than employees in general industry.

A MSD is a sprain/strain type of injury that can occur when employees are exposed to ergonomic risk factors such as lifting heavy items, awkward postures, repetitive or sustained postures and exposure to vibration.

In response to the high number of MSD in foundries, OSHA released a guidance document called “Solutions for Preventing Musculoskeletal Disorders in Foundries”. This 2012 publication provides some guidance for employers for tackling ergonomic issues in foundries, however the solutions can be applied to general industry also.

First and foremost, OSHA states that there must be a commitment by management towards a systematic and sustained approach to managing ergonomic issues. Employees should be trained, consulted and involved through the establishment of focused teams to identify ergonomic risk factors in the workplace and find solutions that can be integrated into existing business operations.

The publication mentions specific controls to reduce MSD risks associated with heavy lifting, such as use of hoists, mechanical loading/unloading devices, powered conveyors and trolleys/dollies.

Recommendations to reduce risks associated with awkward postures (such as over reaching) include use of height appropriate and height adjustable work surfaces, modifications to work benches (such as cuts outs) and diverters to help direct materials during production. Risk factors associated with static postures can be reduced by use of sit/stand equipment and ergonomic floor mats.

The guidance document highlights the need for employers to control hazards associated with MSD’s and OSHA’s recommendations can be applied to many workplaces. For further information or assistance in meeting OSHA’s obligations in relation to ergonomic risk factors, contact HazCommpliance at 860-253-0050. We can tailor a comprehensive ergonomic risk management program for your workplace.

For more information on safety training or what trainings HazCommpliance can offer your organization please email us at