Occupational Overuse Syndrome

Nature of Harm

Muscle fatigue is associated with tasks that require tense muscles and repetitive actions. At Curtin University this syndrome is often associated with clerical and academic tasks such as working on keyboards, handwriting and marking.

Prevention

These are some of the things you can do to prevent OOS.

Personal:

• posture;
• micro-pauses;
• stretching/exercise/relaxation;
• planning workflow to avoid long periods working on the same physical task. Options include rotating or sharing tasks and prioritising workflow;
• setting up the workstation for comfort; and
• management of personal stress and tension.

Organisational:

• encouraging early reporting;
• rehabilitation programmes;
• provision of ergonomic equipment;
• training and education programmes.

What help does EduSafe offer?

• A workplace assessment for staff, looking at all aspects of preventing injury can be arranged by calling the Edusafe team.
• Training and Education:
  • Office safety training looking at prevention of injury
  • Presentations can be arranged for groups of any size.
  • One to one assessments for staff can be arranged on request

Responsibilities

Managers and supervisors

Managers are responsible for ensuring that their staff are provided with the equipment and training necessary to enable them to safely manage their work. Managers and supervisors should also be aware of the level of risk facing their staff and ensure that the adequate precautions are actually implemented. If they have any concerns they should contact the EduSafe team for assistance and advice.

Staff

All staff should take responsibility for their own well-being, by taking the basic precautions. If any person is concerned that they may be suffering from OOS symptoms or have any other concerns or queries, then they should contact their Manager, their Safety and Health representative or the EduSafe team.