The private sector experienced 976,090 musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) DART cases, including 502,380 DAFW cases in 2021-2022. MSDs are a grouping of related injuries sometimes referred to as “ergonomic injuries.” MSDs generally occur when the worker uses muscles, tendons, and ligaments to perform tasks in awkward positions or in frequent activities that, over time, create pain and injury. MSDs are defined by BLS as the combination of certain natures of injury or illness and events or exposures.
To be considered a MSD, the nature of the injury or illness must be one of the following:
- pinched nerve;
- herniated disc;
- meniscus tear;
- sprains, strains, tears;
- hernia (traumatic and nontraumatic);
- pain, swelling, and numbness;
- carpal or tarsal tunnel syndrome;
- Raynaud’s syndrome or phenomenon;
- or musculoskeletal system and connective tissue diseases and disorders.
In addition, one of the following events or exposures must lead to the injury or illness:
- overexertion and bodily reaction, unspecified;
- overexertion involving outside sources;
- repetitive motion involving microtasks;
- other and multiple exertions or bodily reactions;
- or rubbed, abraded, or jarred by vibration.
This infographic provides an overview of the nonfatal trends. The data on nonfatal cases cover occupational injuries and illnesses and come from the BLS Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses (SOII) for 2011-2022. From 2011 through 2020, annual estimates are available for the number of DAFW cases (with or without days of restricted work activity). Starting in 2021, biennial estimates are available for DAFW, DJTR, and DART cases. This page highlights both DAFW and DART estimates. The latest estimate period available reflects cases occurring in 2021 and 2022. Because DAFW data transitioned from annual reporting to biennial reporting in 2021, care should be used when comparing trends. Explore the data details tab for additional information on demographics, industry, occupation, days lost, and historic trends.
Employees should follow the tips below to prevent musculoskeletal injuries while working:
- Use arm and leg muscles for lifting, do not bend your back!
- Warm up before lifting and avoid over-straining.
- Do not attempt to lift more than you can carry safely and without undue strain.
- Call for help with heavy loads!
Specific Tips to Reduce the Risk of Injury While Lifting
- Stand close to the load, with feet comfortably apart – about shoulder width.
- For a load that is at floor level, squat down, bending at the hips and knees.
- Grip the load securely.
- Arch your lower back inwards, shoulders back and chest out.
- To reduce strain on your back, carry the load close to your body, or on your shoulder.
- Avoid sudden jerky movements; move smoothly. In placing the load down, arch your back inwards. See that your legs – not your back, take the weight.
‘Until next time…Work Safe & Be Safe!’
