Breaks reduce muscle fatigue
Workers performing repetitive manual tasks can avoid muscle fatigue by taking short breaks every 10 minutes, researchers say.
A team from the University of Alberta asked a group of men to lift and move 16-pound boxes during a series of work-rest schedules. The researchers used sensors to measure body movement as well as electrical signals generated by muscles.
Findings show that stopping to stretch or rest for no longer than a minute every 10 minutes could limit muscle fatigue and workers’ risk for musculoskeletal injury.
When the participants took “micro-breaks,” they were more likely to practice proper posture over time. The short breaks did not have a negative impact on productivity.
Source: Safety+Health
