ABSTRACT
Data compiled by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show that musculoskeletal disorders, including
back pain and carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), are work-related illnesses that occur among bakery
workers, including cake decorators. From 1997 to 2001, 403 cases of CTS were reported in this group1
(R10 Tables). In 2002, almost half of all lost time injuries and illnesses in bakers were due to muscu-
loskeletal disorders, which include such injuries as sprains, strains, back pain, and CTS1 (Supplemental
Table 12). The occurrence of musculoskeletal disorders in this population suggests that some issues may
exist within the tasks performed as part of the cake decorating process. Work-related musculoskeletal
disorders are associated with repetitive movements, forceful exertions, awkward postures, and extreme
temperatures, among other factors.2 Those mentioned are possible risk factors that cake decorators
are exposed to on a regular basis. The aims of this chapter are to identify the main ergonomics risk
factors that potentially contribute to the musculoskeletal symptoms experienced by cake decorators
and to propose interventions that may reduce the exposure to the risk factors during cake decorating
tasks.
