Approximately one-third of all cases of sick leave for health care workers are related to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) originating in the neck, shoulders, and back. A cross-sectional multicenter survey based on the Nordic Questionnaire for Analysis of Musculoskeletal Symptoms investigated the nature and scope of MSDs among Dutch OR personnel. The three-month prevalence rates for MSDs in OR personnel were found to be high compared to MSDs in the general population and comparable to rates in other strenuous professions in health care, industry, and construction. The causes of MSDs that participants mentioned were summarized into four main categories: prolonged standing, awkward postures, lifting and pushing; and climactic conditions.

Prolonged standing is considered to be an occupational risk factor for musculoskeletal disorders. This cross-sectional, multicenter study examined whether Dutch perioperative personnel exceeded ergonomic guidelines for standing in the workplace (ie, not more than one hour of continuous standing and not more than four hours of standing in total per day). Perioperative personnel in 16 hospitals recorded their standing times on a daily basis. The average standing time in the OR was 2.5 hours per work day; however, participants exceeded the ergonomic guidelines on two out of three work days.A reduction in the source of the strain is considered to be the most effective way to prevent occupational health problems. Taking "microbreaks" to relax or move and job duty rotation could help reduce excessive physical stress.