Safety meetings related to ergonomics, workplace design, repetative motion and cumulative trauma disorders
Cumulative trauma disorders refer to wear and tear on the musculoskeletal system. Common CTDs include carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis and lower back disorders. Pain, swelling, inflammation, burning and stiffness are often associated with CTDs, or they may lead to a CTD.
Ergonomics is applying engineering and scientific principles when designing a work environment that accommodates the employee in relation to the workplace, product, equipment, tools, workspace and organization of the work. Ergonomics' objective is to fit the task to the worker, rather than force the person to adapt to the work environment.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, during 2007 overexertion caused more than 17 percent of construction's workplace injuries and illnesses.