COMMENTARY

Workplace intervention and musculoskeletal disorders: the need to develop research on implementation strategy

Y Roquelaure

Correspondence to:
Professor Y Roquelaure, Laboratory of Ergonomics, Epidemiology and Occupational Health, University of Angers, CHU, F-49933 Angers Cedex, France; YvRoquelaure@chu-angers.fr

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Despite the considerable amount of knowledge on the physiopathology, epidemiology and risk model of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) accumulated the last 20 years, they remain a major cause of work-related diseases in many countries. Multidimensional ergonomic interventions, including a participatory approach and individual, technical and organisational measures, seem to be an appropriate strategy for reducing the physical demands and the symptoms of MSDs,^{1 2} but evidence of their efficacy is still limited.³ Nevertheless, the scientific understanding of the aetiology of MSDs and their work-relatedness is sufficient to implement effective preventive interventions,^{1 2 4} as demonstrated by the study of Jensen and Friche⁵ published in this issue (see page 20). The study provides interesting insights into the prevention of musculoskeletal (knee) disorders and the strategy to implement interventions in a specific trade—that is, floor and carpet fitters (floor layers)—in daily practice. The authors demonstrate that implementation of new working methods requires a long-term . . . [Full text of this article]

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Effects of training to implement new working methods to reduce knee strain in floor layers. A two-year follow-up

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