Contact stress is a common risk factor for musculoskeletal injury (MSI). It occurs when continuous force or rubbing is concentrated on a sensitive body area. For example, when a worker kneels to install flooring, the tissue over the knees can be pinched or compressed, resulting in discomfort and pain.

The pressure created by contact stress can bruise muscles and soft tissue. It can also restrict blood flow and damage nerves.

Examples of MSI Risk

• Prolonged kneeling on a hard floor while installing flooring
• Using your knee as a hammer

MSI Control Options

• Use comfortable, high quality knee pads to cushion and protect the knees.
• Use a kneeling pad to cushion and protect the knees.
• Use knee pads with rollers to move around and reduce friction.
• Use a mortar spreading machine.
• Set up the saw on a workbench to avoid kneeling.
• Alternate kneeling work with a standing task to take a break from kneeling.
• Don't use your foot or knee as a hammer.

At Gama Safety, we promote ergonomic planning and the right PPE to prevent MSI for flooring crews. Plan tasks, rotate positions, and protect contact points to keep teams healthy and productive.

Reduce contact stress with proper PPE, tooling, and job rotation. Small changes in setup and technique significantly lower MSI risk for flooring tasks at Gama Safety.

Training Center: 122-2544 Douglas Road, Burnaby BC. V5C 5B4, Canada.

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