Work-related musculoskeletal pain, commonly called musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) or cumulative trauma disorders (CTD), has continued to occur despite efforts by employers, employees, health care providers, and the government. The National Institute of Occupational and Safety has encouraged employers to establish ergonomic prevention programs; however, many employers are concerned that screening, education, and focused attention on workplace pain will increase in the number of OSHA 200 events and increase the incidence of workers' compensation claims. This prospective cohort study demonstrated that there was no increase in the number of OSHA 200 events and that there was no increase in the incidence of workers' compensation claims after completion of an individual risk screening program that included education and employee awareness about work-related musculoskeletal pain. In incidence of CTD has been most effectively reduced by using individual risk screening programs. Therefore, employers should be encouraged to develop and implement prevention programs that include individual risk screening.

The impact of workplace screening on the occurrence of cumulative trauma disorders and workers' compensation claims. J Occup Environ Med 41:84-92, 1999. Melhorn JM. Reference ID: 2156