What type of hazard can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome?

Repetitive motion is the type of hazard that can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome. This condition arises when the median nerve, which runs through the carpal tunnel in the wrist, becomes compressed due to consistent and repeated movements, particularly those involving the hands and wrists. These activities can include typing, using hand tools, or operating machinery such as forklifts, where repetitive tasks are common.

The nature of these movements can cause inflammation and swelling in the surrounding tissue, leading to increased pressure on the nerve. Over time, this strain can result in symptoms such as pain, numbness, and weakness in the hands or fingers, characteristic of carpal tunnel syndrome. Understanding the impact of repetitive motions is critical in workplace safety, as it emphasizes the need for ergonomic practices and regular breaks to reduce the risk of such injuries.