NIOSH looks to extend study on MSD interventions

Washington – NIOSH is seeking to extend a study assessing the effectiveness and cost benefit of interventions intended to reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders in the workplace.

Conducted in partnership with the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation, the study began in 2011 and is scheduled to conclude Nov. 30. Researchers are testing MSD control interventions such as stair-climbing powered hand trucks and powered truck lift gates for their effectiveness in reducing self-reported back and upper-extremity pain. Study participants include 960 employees performing delivery operations at 72 wholesale and retail trade companies.

If the study is extended, workers would be asked to complete a survey every three months over a two-year period on use of interventions and material handling exposures, and to complete three health assessments. Data collection is expected to be completed in 2016, NIOSH said in a notice published in the June 4 Federal Register.

Comments on the study extension are due Aug. 1.