It is well known that our bodies in motion can reap healthy benefits. Stronger muscles, greater physical ability, more energy, and better sleep, to name a few of the overall benefits from movement and exercise. On the other hand, it is clear some movements of the body, especially if repeated often and forcefully, are not always healthy. Whether it’s that game of pickle ball, working in the yard, or lifting packages or mail trays at work, sometimes we can overdo it.
When the motion includes excessive force and is repeated often without sufficient recovery time it can lead to fatigue and strain. Another factor to consider with repeated motions is awkward or strained postures. The position of our body can compound the stress from repeated work. This includes when the wrist is bent up or down, elbows are up and away from the body, arms and shoulders are extended forward or stretched backward, and the back is bent at the waist. This is where the joints and connective tissue in the body are most vulnerable.
It is unknown exactly how much repetitive motion of the body is too much? Studies of workers performing repetitive tasks have shown that the likelihood of fatigue and strain is greatly decreased when forceful effort and awkward postures are minimized.
Some practical tips for managing repetitive work includes the following:
n Keep the object close within easy reach.
n Slide the object rather than lift for culling and sorting mail onto a conveyor.
n Let the object come to you, don’t reach and overextend before it gets there.
n Keep horizontal reach between waist and shoulders.
n Avoid holding the object with extended arms.
n Use both hands to move the object.
n Work forward with shoulders and arms, avoid twisting and reaching back.
n Take microstretch breaks.
n Rotate regularly to less repetitive tasks for rest and recovery.
Repetitive motion is a routine part of work in many Postal Service™ operations. And it is a part of many of the activities we do for sport and recreation outside of work. Some motion can be beneficial to the body, while some may have a harmful impact if done in a manner that overstresses the muscles, joints and connective tissue. We must recognize and reduce factors such as excessive force and stressed postures during work or personal activities.
Considering all aspects of the body in motion will help us identify the causes of adverse effects before we overdo it. In the USPS® workplace, we understand that repetitive motion tasks can be a part of the work. We strive to incorporate design criteria including height, reach, and clearance into processing equipment that will reduce the force and allow good posture. Equipment is available to assist in unloading or loading to minimize the effects of repetitive lifting and handling mail.
The goal is to work safely at our Postal Service jobs and continue to do those things outside of work to keep the body in motion for a healthy lifestyle.
Occupational Safety and Health,
Human Resources, 10-15-26
