MSDs, a major issue for professionals on the move
RSI in travelling sales representatives is now a major health issue for all professionals who have to travel and transport equipment on a daily basis.
In France, musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are the leading cause of recognised occupational illnesses, accounting for 88 % of cases under the general scheme. (1) Nearly 60 % of women and over 50 % of men aged between 18 and 64 say they suffer from MSDs, including lower back pain, sciatica, shoulder pain or carpal tunnel.
This is particularly true of jobs exposed to repetitive handling and the carrying of loads. But MSDs are also a risk for travelling salespeople. Manual handling is a daily occurrence for sales representatives in the textile, optical and construction industries.
The daily lives of sales agents and the risk of RSI
The specific constraints of the travelling salesperson's job
The job of sales agent or travelling salesperson involves much more than simply visiting customers or presenting products. (2) Each day often begins with the preparation and loading of collections or samples into a vehicle, then continues with appointments, where each time the material has to be unloaded, transported, installed, presented and then repacked.
It can include the handling of catalogues, samples, demonstration tools in the building, or a complete collection of frames or clothing in the optical and textile sectors.
It can include the handling of catalogues, samples, demonstration tools in the building, or a complete collection of frames or clothing in the optical and textile sectors.
This cycle is repeated several times a day, often in less than ergonomic conditions: stairs, pavements, cobblestones, remote car parks, no lift. These repeated stresses are conducive to the development of MSDs in travelling salespeople. Low back pain remains the most common, followed by shoulder and upper limb pain. (3)
How do salespeople's everyday actions contribute to RSI?
MSDs among travelling sales representatives do not just happen. They are the result of a combination of factors linked to professional activity and individual predisposition. Among travelling salespeople, certain gestures are particularly at risk:
- Carrying heavy loads Working out: puts a lot of strain on the muscles of the back, shoulders and arms, particularly if the load is poorly distributed or if the movement is badly executed. Over time, this can lead to lower back pain, sciatica, tendonitis or herniated discs.
- Repetitive movements Handling samples, opening and closing suitcases or typing on a laptop can lead to tendon inflammation (tendonitis) or nerve compression (carpal tunnel syndrome).
- Vibrations Driving-related stress can radiate throughout the body and encourage RSI, particularly in the back and upper limbs. They can also be linked to carrying a classic wheeled suitcase on a cobbled street.
- Stress Muscle tension: can lead to muscle tension, which increases sensitivity to pain and encourages MSDs.
Prevention solutions for mobile sales staff
The good news is that it is possible to take action on a day-to-day basis to prevent MSDs among travelling sales representatives, by adopting good practices and using appropriate equipment. Here are a few avenues to explore:
Optimising the organisation of sales staff and adopting the right postures
Plan your rounds taking into account distances and access difficulties, prepare your equipment in advance and take regular breaks to prevent muscle fatigue.
Carry loads close to the body by bending your knees, distribute your weight evenly and use handling aids. Adapt your workstation and stretch regularly to maintain good blood circulation and relax your muscles.
Choosing the right ergonomic equipment to prevent RSI
Choosing the right professional equipment is essential to prevent RSI among travelling salespeople. Optimal equipment must meet several fundamental criteria:
- Lightweight to limit the total weight transported
- Solidity to withstand impact and intensive wear and tear
- Ergonomics for easy handling and transport
- Adaptability to different products and working environments
Bag PRO designs and manufactures ergonomic professional containers specifically adapted to the needs of travelling agents and sales representatives, meeting these MSD prevention requirements.
Bag PRO: ergonomic solutions designed for the comfort and performance of salespeople on the move
At Bag PRO, we're convinced that ergonomics is a key success factor for mobile salespeople. That's why we design solutions that meet three main objectives, which we call the «3Ps»:
1. Porter: Facilitating the transport of products for sales agents on the move
Our bags and cases distribute weight optimally and take the strain off back and shoulder muscles, making it easier to get around even in difficult environments.
We use lightweight, hard-wearing materials, high-performance anti-vibration wheel systems and ergonomic handles to make our work easier. maximum comfort.
2. Protect: Ensuring the safety of samples and the health of travelling sales representatives
We know that your products are precious, and that they deserve to be protected from knocks, scratches, dust and moisture, and that's the primary objective of our containers.
But protection is just as important for sales staff, which is why we design ergonomic containers for your comfort.
3. Presenting: promoting products to your customers
We believe that the container enhances the content. That's why we design solutions that enhance your products, making them easier to display and handle.
We also offer bespoke interior layouts and customisation options, to help you create the best possible customer experience.
CONCLUSION :
Investing in ergonomics for performance
It is important to remember that almost 30 % of work stoppages in France are caused by a musculoskeletal disorder. Beyond the human aspect, the financial consequences are major: in recent years, the direct cost of MSDs to French companies has reached almost two billion euros a year, via contributions to accidents at work and occupational illnesses (AT/MP) alone.
Ergonomics is an essential investment in the health and performance of mobile sales staff. The right solutions can significantly improve working comfort and reduce the risk of RSI.
By choosing Bag PRO, you're investing in the well-being of your sales staff while improving their efficiency and performance. Our durable solutions will support you on a daily basis and help you to achieve your professional objectives in the best ergonomic conditions.
