IRSST - Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail

The work of emergency medical technician-paramedics: Understanding the risks in order to prevent musculoskeletal disorders

Summary

This document summarizes the key results of a major study of the risks of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in emergency medical technician-paramedics (EMT-Ps) with the intent of:

  • making stakeholders aware of the risks of MSDs associated with the profession of EMT-P
  • encouraging the development and implementation of various preventive measures and the enhancement of training and professional development activities

On the basis of factual data, the researchers propose some preventive solutions to reduce the frequency and severity of MSDs. In this way, we hope to contribute to reducing the high staff turnover rate and the resulting loss of valuable experience in this sector, since EMT-Ps often take early retirement for medical reasons or leave their jobs in search of less demanding tasks or better working conditions as they grow older.

Additional Information

Author(s):
  • Philippe Corbeil
Research Project: 0099-8190
Knowledge Transfer Activity: 2016-0033
Online since: April 07, 2017
Format: Text