BEYOND THE WRENCH PAGE | 5
Risk of long-term, frequent
exposure
The top three identified risk events, noise exposure,
MSDs from handling objects, and MSDs from awkward
postures, usually have a gradual onset after long-
term exposure. By the time a worker experiences
symptoms, the damage has been done, which is why
early education and training is crucial to reducing
these types of injuries.
"Younger workers are not often concerned about
the long-term impact of exposure to MSDs because
it isn't affecting them yet," said Andrew, who is a
younger worker himself. "Employers and supervisors
need to make employees aware of the potential risks
and/or injuries. Perhaps using personal experience
and knowledge could help young workers realize the
potential dangers."
"
"
"Safety wasn't very
important in some of the
shops I worked at previously,
so it was great to hear from
folks in the sector who
care about managing these
hazards. I want to learn and
offer input to the "older
guys" about what we can
change. I am the future of
the company."
—Aleem Ahmed, Apprentice
Technician, Mercedes-Benz
Kitchener-Waterloo
