ABSTRACT
Low-level static exertions have been identified as a risk factor for the development of cumulative trauma disorders or repetitive strain injuries from epidemiological studies. The exposure in terms of static exertions in the workplace has been assessed for different jobs and/or tasks based on electromyographic recordings from specific muscle groups (Table 13.1). Jobs characterized by relatively high static levels in neck and shoulder showed health outcomes in terms of musculoskeletal disorders in these body regions (Table 13.2). In the 1970s, static contractions of 15% MVC (maximum voluntary contraction) were considered to be tolerated for an “unlimited” period of time for a muscle.
