February 15, 2023 – Hamilton, ON – Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS)
The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) is reminding workplaces to use International Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) Awareness Day (RSI Day) on February 28, 2023, as an opportunity to raise awareness about these injuries and share prevention methods.
Repetitive strain injuries (also referred to as musculoskeletal disorders) are an umbrella term used to describe a family of painful disorders affecting tendons, muscles, nerves and joints in the neck, upper and lower back, chest, shoulders, arms, and hands. These injuries can happen to workers in all industries, manifesting over time from the repetitiveness of everyday movements like bending, twisting, clenching and reaching.
Leading up to RSI Day and beyond, organizations can spread awareness and educate workers about injury prevention. To help get them started, CCOHS has a collection of infographics, fact sheets, posters, podcasts, courses and other resources available for free at www.ccohs.ca/events/rsi.
Quotes
“Repetitive strain injuries develop slowly over time. Because of this, workers need to be made aware of the causes of these injuries and how to recognize early signs and symptoms. But most importantly, everyone should be trained on how to prevent them.”
- Anne Tennier, President and Chief Executive Officer, Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS)
Quick Facts
- According to the Association of Workers' Compensation Boards of Canada (AWCBC), 9,960 accepted lost-time injuries due to musculoskeletal and connective tissue injuries were reported in 2021 (up 6.5% from 2020).
- RSI Day is February 29 (February 28 in non-leap years). As the only "non-repetitive" day of the year, it’s the ideal date to devote to raising awareness of repetitive strain injuries.
Associated Links
- International Repetitive Strain Injury Awareness Day Website
- Musculoskeletal Disorders Resources
- Ergonomic Resources
- Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs): Awareness Course (free)
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