In this webinar
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.
About the presenter
Dr. Andrew Laing is an Associate Professor in the Department of Kinesiology & Health Sciences at the University of Waterloo. His general field of interest is musculoskeletal biomechanics related to human health and injury prevention, and the role that advancing age has on these relationships.
Dr. Laing's current research program focuses on two injury categories: 1) workplace musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD); and 2) fall-related tissue trauma including hip fractures, spinal cord injuries, and traumatic brain injuries. His workplace research interests involve the development and implementation of participatory ergonomics processes in industry, assessment of potential age-related differences in knowledge capital and physical work capacity associated with manual materials handling, and the effects of flooring designs/properties on risk factors for WMSD in staff working in residential care facilities. This work will support interventions to promote healthy aging and work ability across the lifespan.
Resources
For assistance, please contact Betina Butler at bbutler@uwaterloo.ca.
Disclaimer: CRE-MSD receives funding through a grant provided by the Ontario Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. The views expressed are those of the presenters and do not necessarily reflect those of the Centre nor of the Province of Ontario.