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RSI Definition
- Repetitive Stress Injuries also referred to as Cumulative Trauma Disorders
(CTDs), Repetitive Motion Injuries (RMIs) or Musculoskeletal Disorders
(MSDs)
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RSIs are disorders of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems caused or
aggravated by repetitive motions, forceful exertions, awkward posture
and vibration or compressive forces (hard, sharp edges)
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RSIs affect tissues, nerves, tendons, ligaments, joints and supporting
blood vessels resulting in pain, tension and strains
General Risk Factors for RSIs among Circulation Staff:
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Repetition: Lifting, turning and opening books and AV materials during
check-out and check-in
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Forceful exertion: Required pinch grip when picking up books and media
and when opening and processing AV material
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Awkward postures of upper extremities (shoulders, arms, hands and wrists)
when handling media
Specific Work Rates and Hazards
at the Main Library*:
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Check-out Desk: Awkward postures and excessive handling requiring pinch
grip and force to check-out items. Each piece of media must be individually
handled.
Workload: 12 events per minute/ 768 per hour (Highly repetitive when events
exceed 3 per minute). Awkward and forceful hand/arm motions to desensitize
material.
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Check-in Desk: Excessive grasping and handling to process returns. Each
piece of media must be handled individually and 70% must be opened. 70%
of books are being lifted, turned and flipped over in order to scan. Workload:
10 events per minute/ 575 per hour (Highly repetitive when events exceed
3 per minute)
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Sorting Room: Excessive grasping and handling to sort/process returns.
Workload: 16 events per minute/ 940 per hour (Highly repetitive when events
exceed 3 per minute)
Public Service Employees with Industrial Injuries:
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From January 2001 through January 2004 thirty-six (36) employees whose
duties include public service have filed Worker’s Compensation claims
resulting in 260 loss work days; 500 modified/restricted work days; $265,000
paid costs
Summary:
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Goal is to reduce the repetitive lifting, turning, scanning, desensitizing
and opening of each piece of library material and to set up a system that
will allow staff to slide material into place and have one motion for
check-in and out (RFID).
*Ergonomic consultant report for 1st Floor Remodeling Project & Dept.
of Public Health staff 3/02/04
RFID Technology and Reducing Risk Factors for RSI Injuries
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