NSC report highlights the benefits of MSD prevention technology

May 13, 2026 - 20:25

A new report from the National Safety Council highlights how emerging technology is helping reduce musculoskeletal disorders, or MSDs, in the workplace. The study, led by the council's MSD Solutions Lab, found that tools like wearable sensors, computer vision systems, and exoskeletons are showing real promise in cutting down the repetitive strain and overexertion injuries that plague industries from manufacturing to healthcare.

Researchers focused on "the workers using these tools every day," said Paige DeBaylo, director of the MSD Solutions Lab. The report draws on data from pilot programs and field tests, where companies deployed devices that track body movement, alert workers to awkward postures, or provide physical support during heavy lifting. Early results suggest that these technologies can reduce injury rates by as much as 30 to 50 percent in some settings, while also improving worker comfort and productivity.

The findings come as MSDs remain one of the most common and costly workplace injuries, accounting for roughly a third of all workers' compensation claims. The council's report argues that prevention technology is not just a safety investment but a financial one, with potential savings in medical costs and lost workdays. DeBaylo noted that the lab is now working to scale these solutions, particularly for small and mid-sized businesses that may lack resources for expensive equipment. The full report urges employers to consider pilot programs and to involve workers in choosing the right tools for their specific tasks.