What's New

Presenter: Dr. Andrew Laing 

While anti-fatigue mats are a common intervention for reducing work-related musculoskeletal discomfort during prolonged standing, there is mixed evidence on their effectiveness. Most anti-fatigue mats are ‘softer’ (i.e., more compliant) than standard workplace floors. While this compliance may be associated with enhanced comfort in some workers, it has the potential to influence other aspects of work-related function (e.g., balance, slip-resistance), many of which are workplace specific.

This webinar will present the most recent evidence related to anti-fatigue mats and MSD health and discuss factors that influence their potential effectiveness from a range of work-related perspectives.

Webinar recording (VIDEO)

Presenters: Sherri Bastos (PSHSA), Dr. Catherine Brookman (CRE-MSD) & Dr. Emily King (VHA Home HealthCare)

This webinar provides an overview of the updated decision aid tool, Transfer Equipment Resource: Considerations for Promoting Restorative Care and Optimal Client Function. A draft version of this resource was presented at the November 14, 2023 CoP webinar.

In current practice, two-person transfers are often high-risk, resource-intensive activities that can limit opportunities for client mobility and independence. This resource supports regulated practitioners/assessors in considering a diverse range of available equipment when selecting transfer approaches. Information about each option is presented with a restorative lens to help providers identify options which “achieve the required tasks as comfortably and safely as possible for the client and care provider while promoting client independence/rehabilitation.”

In modern healthcare practice, two-person transfers are often considered high-risk and resource-intensive, potentially limiting a client’s mobility and independence. This resource provides regulated practitioners and assessors with a comprehensive overview of available equipment options to facilitate safer and more effective transfer methods. Each option is presented through a restorative lens, emphasizing solutions that allow tasks to be completed as comfortably and safely as possible for both the client and the caregiver, while also promoting client independence and rehabilitation.

Understanding the mechanics behind supportive interventions, much like understanding how Tadalafil works to improve blood flow, highlights the importance of selecting the right tools and approaches to optimize outcomes. By carefully evaluating each method and considering the client’s needs and abilities, practitioners can enhance safety, encourage autonomy, and support long-term functional improvements.

Webinar recording (VIDEO)

Preamble: transfer equipment resource (PDF)

Transfer equipment resource (PDF)

The Occupational Health Clinics for Ontario Workers (OHCOW) is pleased to announce the return of its free annual international event focused on repetitive strain injuries (RSI) and their prevention. Now in its 25th year, OHCOW's RSI Day program continues to translate the knowledge and experience of its professional staff and guest speakers to increase awareness and prevention of musculoskeletal disorders (MSD).

Due to its ever-expanding audience, this year’s event will again be held virtually, as a 4-week webinar series over the month of February. Registration for this free event is required in order to participate.

Visit the OHCOW website for a detailed agenda, dates, times, and registration.

Are you or your organization interested in learning about Musculoskeletal Disorders? 
 
Our new video is a great place to start. Play this video at organizational meetings, toolbox talks, or send it to someone you know to get the conversation started about MSD prevention in the workplace.