RSI

Term from Occupational Health industry explained for recruiters

RSI (Repetitive Strain Injury) is a workplace health condition that occurs when people repeatedly perform the same movements, typically while using computers or doing assembly work. It's also known as Work-Related Upper Limb Disorder (WRULD) or Cumulative Trauma Disorder (CTD). This term is important in job descriptions because it relates to workplace safety, ergonomics, and employee health. Prevention of RSI is a key concern for many companies, especially in office environments or manufacturing settings where repetitive tasks are common.

Examples in Resumes

Developed prevention programs for RSI and Repetitive Strain Injury in office environments

Conducted workplace assessments to reduce RSI risks in manufacturing setting

Created and implemented WRULD and RSI awareness training for 500+ employees

Typical job title: "Occupational Health Specialists"

Also try searching for:

Ergonomist Occupational Health Nurse Health and Safety Specialist Workplace Safety Coordinator Occupational Therapist Industrial Hygienist Environmental Health and Safety Officer

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you develop and implement a company-wide RSI prevention program?

Expected Answer: A senior professional should discuss comprehensive risk assessment, employee training programs, ergonomic evaluations, data collection methods, and measuring program effectiveness. They should also mention stakeholder engagement and budget considerations.

Q: What strategies would you use to address resistance to ergonomic changes in the workplace?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate experience with change management, communication strategies, showing ROI to management, and methods for gaining employee buy-in through education and demonstration of benefits.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the key risk factors for RSI that you look for during a workplace assessment?

Expected Answer: Should identify repetitive movements, awkward postures, force requirements, duration of tasks, and workplace setup issues. Should also mention the importance of gathering employee feedback.

Q: How do you document and track RSI cases in the workplace?

Expected Answer: Should explain methods for incident reporting, maintaining confidential health records, tracking patterns and trends, and using data to prevent future cases.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic symptoms of RSI?

Expected Answer: Should list common symptoms like pain, tingling, numbness in affected areas, and explain when to refer to medical professionals.

Q: What are some basic ergonomic adjustments that can help prevent RSI?

Expected Answer: Should describe simple workplace modifications like proper chair height, monitor position, keyboard placement, and the importance of regular breaks.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic ergonomic assessment
  • Understanding of RSI symptoms
  • Workplace safety regulations
  • Basic documentation and reporting

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Detailed workplace assessments
  • Implementation of prevention programs
  • Training development and delivery
  • Case management experience

Senior (5+ years)

  • Program development and management
  • Policy creation and implementation
  • Budget management
  • Strategic planning for health initiatives

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of basic ergonomic principles
  • Lack of understanding of workplace safety regulations
  • No experience with risk assessment
  • Poor documentation skills
  • Inability to communicate effectively with different stakeholders