Top 5 Workplace Risk Factors Causing Musculoskeletal Injuries

Musculoskeletal injuries (MSIs) remain one of the most common and costly problems in the mining and resources sector. Across Queensland, they account for a significant portion of lost-time injuries and workers’ compensation claims every year — often from preventable causes.

For organisations operating in physically demanding environments, identifying and mitigating these risks is critical to maintaining productivity, compliance, and workforce wellbeing.

1. Repetitive and Sustained Movements

Operators who perform the same motion over long periods—such as shovelling, drilling, or operating equipment—are prone to overuse injuries. Even low-intensity tasks, when sustained, can lead to cumulative strain on joints and muscles.

2. Awkward or Sustained Postures

Working in confined spaces or positions that require bending, twisting, or overhead reach increases the load on the spine and shoulders. Poor postural endurance is a major contributor to neck and lower back pain.

3. Manual Handling and Heavy Lifting

While manual handling training is widely implemented, it often fails to address underlying issues such as fatigue, poor conditioning, or task design. The result? Workers may still lift unsafely when under time pressure or repetitive strain.

4. Vibration and Force Exposure

Vibration from tools and heavy machinery is strongly linked to joint degeneration, nerve irritation, and chronic soft-tissue pain. Vibration control and load management are essential components of injury prevention planning.

5. Poor Work Design and Ergonomics

Workstations, vehicle cabs, and tool setups that are not fitted to workers’ size and capabilities increase biomechanical stress. Task-specific ergonomic reviews are among the most effective ways to reduce risk before injuries occur.

The Cost of Doing Nothing

A single musculoskeletal injury can cost thousands in direct medical expenses and lost productivity. The indirect costs — training replacement workers, production disruption, and insurance premiums — are often several times higher.

How Physiotherapy and Ergonomics Make a Difference

Partnering with an occupational physiotherapist allows businesses to:

• Identify and control high-risk tasks early.

• Implement conditioning and early intervention programs.

• Reduce lost-time injuries and compensation claims.

• Support compliance with WHS regulations and company health objectives.

For mining operations and contractors, prevention isn’t just about reducing injuries — it’s about protecting performance and maintaining operational continuity.