Well-organized and efficiently run grocery stores are a much-appreciated convenience to us all. The
functioning of each supermarket depends greatly on the employees upholding the industry. It has been reported
that nearly 80,000 cashier and sales workers are injured with sprains and strains on the job and that greater
than 27% of injuries affect the upper extremity and approximately 25% involve the back. Although workplace
injuries have decreased over recent years, the incidence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD)
continues to be a significant problem for full time supermarket cashiers. The knowledge and awareness of
proper ergonomics and ideal workstation setups are important predisposing factors. An important reinforcing
factor is managerial support. Managers should promote OSHA's practices for health and safety and provide
positive feedback to their employees. The lack of ergonomic training available to supermarket cashiers is
another enabling factor.