Prevent Injuries, Boost Energy: Why Stretching is a Game-Changer for Industrial Workers

Are you spending time and resources on the right strategies to keep employees free from musculoskeletal injuries (MSIs)?

Musculoskeletal injuries —including strains, sprains, and repetitive stress injuries—are among the leading causes of workplace injuries in industrial settings. In 2022, MSDs made up 38% – 52% of all claims in Canada’s Construction, Manufacturing, Transportation, and Utilities industries. Worker’s compensation boards report that MSDs account for 25% to 60% of total annual claims.

Industrial workers often deal with repetitive motions, heavy lifting, and prolonged standing, leading to muscle fatigue, stiffness, and potential injuries. While engineering controls and ergonomic interventions are the best way to reduce these risks, they aren’t always feasible due to cost and operational constraints.

So, what practical and affordable solution can help? Stretching.

Incorporating regular stretching into the workday can significantly improve employee well-being, reduce injury risk, and promote long-term health. Let’s break down the six ways stretching can make a difference in industrial workplaces.

1 – Move Better, Work Better: Improving Flexibility & Range of Motion

For many industrial workers, lifting, bending, and moving materials are daily tasks. Stretching keeps muscles and joints flexible, making these movements easier, safer, and less fatiguing.

• Less strain on muscles and joints during repetitive tasks.
• Better mobility for reaching, bending, and maneuvering.
• Reduced risk of sprains, strains, and overuse injuries.

By improving flexibility, workers move more efficiently, reduce effort, and stay productive longer—without risking injury.

2 – Keep Energy High: Boosting Blood Flow & Reducing Fatigue

Long shifts take a toll—leading to muscle soreness, stiffness, and exhaustion. Stretching increases circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients to muscles to help:

• Prevent cramps and stiffness from prolonged activity.
• Speed up muscle recovery and reduce soreness.
• Provide a quick energy boost during breaks.

A short stretching routine can refresh the body and mind, helping workers stay alert, focused, and less prone to mistakes.

3 – Stand Tall, Stay Strong: Enhancing Posture & Reducing Stress

Bad posture = more pain. Workers who bend, twist, or lift improperly put extra stress on their backs, necks, and shoulders. Stretching corrects imbalances and keeps posture in check.

• Less back, neck, and shoulder pain.
• Better spinal alignment = lower injury risk.
• Reduced muscle tension = lower stress.

Bonus: Stretching also activates the parasympathetic nervous system, helping workers feel calmer and more focused throughout the day.

4 – Stop Injuries Before They Start: Preventing Chronic Pain & Long-Term Issues

Over time, heavy lifting, repetitive motions, and poor ergonomics lead to chronic pain and conditions like osteoarthritis. Stretching helps protect joints and muscles by:

• Keeping muscles loose and reducing joint strain.
• Minimizing wear and tear from repetitive tasks.
• Helping workers recognize early signs of discomfort.

By stretching regularly, workers reduce long-term risks and stay healthier for years to come.

5 – Happier, Healthier Teams: Boosting Worker Morale & Engagement

When employers invest in workplace wellness, employees notice—and they appreciate it. Stretching programs show workers that their health and safety matter.

• Higher job satisfaction and engagement.
• Stronger team camaraderie.
• Lower turnover and absenteeism.

Stretching together can even foster a positive workplace culture, where employees feel supported and motivated to take care of their bodies.

6 – Creating a Safer, More Sustainable Workplace

A workplace where employees can perform their jobs without unnecessary strain is a more productive and sustainable one. Stretching helps:

• Reduce workplace injuries = fewer lost workdays.
• Lower healthcare costs = less strain on benefits.
• Encourage safer work habits through daily reminders to move well.

A small investment in stretching and wellness programs can lead to significant long-term savings for both workers and employers.

Ready to Put This Into Action?

At Anderson Ergonomics Consulting, we’ve developed an e-learning course called “Warm-Up and Stretching for Industrial Workers.” This training is designed to:

1. Educate and motivate workers on why, when, and how to stretch.
2. Include 20 expert-designed stretches for industrial settings.
3. Provide a stretching poster and 20 instructional videos.

👉 Check it out here: Warm-Up and Stretching Course

Final Thoughts

Stretching is one of the simplest and most effective ways to keep industrial workers healthy, injury-free, and engaged. It improves flexibility, blood flow, posture, and morale, all while helping prevent long-term injuries.

By making stretching a daily habit, companies can lower injury risks, improve productivity, and create a workplace where employees thrive.

The question isn’t whether you should implement a stretching program—it’s how soon can you start?

Start today with Anderson Ergonomics Consulting!

References:

Lindberg, S. (2023, May 19). Stretching: 9 Benefits, Plus Safety Tips and How to Start.  https://www.healthline.com/health/benefits-of-stretching.

(2024, April 17) https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/the-importance-of-stretching.

CCOHS, https://www.ccohs.ca/products/publications/msd.