Ergonomics and Dental Work (OHCOW)

Developed by: OCHOW (Occupational Health Clinics for Ontario Workers)

Description: A 29-page document detailing work-related MSD risks and hazards faced by dental hygienists, as well as potential solutions to help mitigate these risks. The resource starts by describing risk factors and in general, then applies them to tasks performed by dental hygienists. Some of these specific considerations include seat choice, working positions relative to the patient and tool use and operation.

Keywords: dental, hygienist, sitting, forward bending, back, neck, shoulder, upper limb, posture, force, repetition, grip, vibration