Real-Life Communication
Industrial hygienists are scientists. Their work involves much sample-gathering,
evaluation, research and other solitary jobs.
However, according to
Kathy Smolynec, an industrial hygienist for a railway company, without people
skills you can't do the most important part of your job as a hygienist: training.
Smolynec
says that the purpose of your work isn't so much finding occupational hazards
as it is teaching managers and workers how to minimize them. She adds that
both groups are often skeptical of hygienists' work.
You are an industrial
hygienist giving a presentation to a group of cashiers on carpal tunnel syndrome.
When you finish your talk, you open the floor for questions. Read the information
below and use it to answer the questions at the end.
Carpal
Tunnel Syndrome
The carpal tunnel is a space in the wrist where
the tendons of the fingers surround the median nerve. When the tendons swell,
they reduce the space in the tunnel and put pressure on the median nerve,
which can result in numbness, tingling and pain. This is called carpal tunnel
syndrome.
People with carpal tunnel syndrome often have trouble turning
keys or fastening buttons.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is particularly associated
with certain tasks, including:
- Repetitive hand motions
- Awkward hand positions
- Strong gripping
- Vibration
Secretaries, farmers, and musicians are examples of people whose
work-related tasks involve the repetitive wrist movements associated with
carpal tunnel syndrome.
To avoid this condition, it is important to
have a properly designed workstation that does not put undue stress on your
body. You want to avoid repetitive motions and awkward wrist positions.
(From
the website of the Canadian Center for Occupational Health and Safety)
Questions
- What is carpal tunnel syndrome?
- How does it develop?
- What kind of workers are likely to get it?