
Using the “TMS PRO” participatory approach to reduce musculoskeletal disorders for packaging line operators in agribusiness
Keywords:Packaging line operators are susceptible to injuries and musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) because their work involves handling heavy loads, repetitive movements and awkward postures.
This case study looks at the collaboration of the Carsat occupational health and prevention organisation with factory management and employees to improve existing safety and health measures for line operators at an agribusiness packaging factory in France. The participatory approach involved affected workers in analysing risks and assessing prevention measures.
The successful intervention also enabled the factory to continue running its prevention policy without outside help.
Related resources
Related resources
Related publications






Additional publications on this topic



Carrying out participatory ergonomics
Category:Musculoskeletal disorders
Category:Worker participation and involvement
Sarah Copsey, Ioannis Anyfantis, European Agency for Safety and Health at Work, Peter Buckle, Imperial College, London, UK
This article provides some basic guidance on how to carry out participatory ergonomics in the workplace, in particular for preventing musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). It draws on a longer article on participatory ergonomics.
Occupational safety and health management systems and workers’ participation
Zofia Pawlowska, Central Institute for Labour Protection - National Research Institute, Poland
As an essential element of each occupational safety and health management system, workers’ participation influences its effectiveness. Numerous cases and experience confirm that workers participation in OSH management can result in improved safety, health and well-being of workers. The participation can be implemented as indirect (through representatives) or direct, weak or strong, formal or informal, etc. Development of workers participation in OSH management is supported by legal regulations as well as standards and guidance on OSH management systems.