February 27, 2024 at 9:27 AM
The choice of
February 29 as Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) Awareness Day due to its occurrence only in leap years is a clever and symbolic way to emphasize the non-repetitive nature of the day. Raising awareness about RSIs is crucial, as these injuries can have a significant impact on the health and well-being of workers.
The focus on poor ergonomic design as a leading cause of workplace injuries highlights an essential aspect of prevention. Ensuring proper ergonomic practices is fundamental in minimizing the risk of RSIs. Ergonomic design involves adapting the workplace to fit the worker, considering factors like posture, equipment design, and workspace layout to reduce strain and promote a healthier work environment.
However, it's crucial to remind individuals about the basics of staying safe, including understanding and implementing ergonomic principles. The proactive approach taken by labour organizations, like Unifor 2002, in providing resources, fact sheets, and webinars on RSIs demonstrates a commitment to the well-being of their members.
Unifor 2002 urges all members to review and share the documentation below on the prevention of RSI and the importance that work shouldn’t cause aches and pains.
Fact Sheet and documents on guarding against common RSIs:
There are additional resources, including checklists and online courses, at the
Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) and the
Occupational Health Clinics for Ontario Workers (OHCOW).
In addition, on
February 29, 2024, please join your union, Unifor 2002, in raising awareness about International Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) by participating in the
Unifor free bilingual RSI webinar which aims to shed light on this far-reaching workplace problem affecting many workers.
Members across the country will have the opportunity to share their experiences as well as hear from knowledgeable health, safety, and ergonomics experts.
****
(Register here for the RSI Webinar) happening
Thursday, February 29 at 1 p.m. EST.
**** Please note prior registration for the RSI webinar is required.
Together, we can make work safe for all.
In solidarity,
Sylvie Schmitt - National Health and Safety Coordinators - Air Canada Mainline
Geoffrey Bierman - National Health and Safety Coordinator - Jazz Aviation Line Technical Service
Jeff Decker - National Health and Safety Coordinator - Jazz Technical Services
Manon Boucher National Health and Safety Coordinator - Jazz Aviation Customer and Aircraft Services