Can employees use wrist supports on the job?

In the preamble to OSHA’s proposed ergonomics rule, the agency said that wrist braces/splints are not considered PPE and are not considered a control to reduce ergonomic hazards. OSHA noted that these devices are marketed as equipment that can prevent MSDs, although the evidence to support these claims is not available. Specifically, the agency said that wrist splints and braces present even more serious problems: “Wrist splints or braces used to keep the wrist straight during work are not recommended, unless prescribed by a physician for rehabilitation. * * * Using a splint to achieve the same end may cause more harm than good since the work orientation may require workers to bend their wrists. If workers are wearing wrist splints, they may have to use more force to work against the brace. This is not only inefficient, it may actually increase the pressure in the carpal tunnel area, causing more damage to the hand and wrist (Ex. 26-1424).”

Since most employers have an injury/illness reporting requirement, employees should have informed the company if they are having issues with wrist/back pain, at which point an ergonomics assessment could be performed. If employees are experiencing issues such as wrist pain, it may be better for the company (and the employee) to send the employee for an ergonomic medical evaluation, and make a determination whether there are problems or not.