NSC Invests $300,000 in Next-Generation Solutions for Safer Workplaces

Core Insights - The National Safety Council (NSC) awarded $300,000 in grants for the 2025-2026 Research to Solutions (R2S) and MSD Solutions Pilot programs, totaling nearly $850,000 invested in musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) prevention over three years [1][2] Group 1: Grant Programs - The grants support academic research and workplace pilot programs through the NSC MSD Solutions Lab, which was established in 2021 with funding from Amazon [2][6] - The R2S grant provides up to $50,000 for academic institutions to explore innovative MSD interventions, focusing on areas like emerging technologies and total worker wellbeing [4][5] - The MSD Solutions Pilot Grant offers $20,000 to trial safety innovations through partnerships between MSD Pledge members and technology providers [5][7] Group 2: Awardees and Projects - University of Waterloo will utilize innovative MSD risk assessment tools leveraging data from emerging technologies [7] - Auburn University plans to test a new plant-layout organizational tool for MSD control [7] - Texas Tech University will assess 3D printed head and neck rests to reduce discomfort during overhead work [7] - George Mason University aims to develop smartphone computer vision technology for real-time movement assessment to prevent MSDs in emergency responders [7] - Cargill will collaborate with MākuSafe to explore technology for risk profiling and early hazard identification [7] - Northwell will validate the benefits of a "surgeon exoskeleton" in reducing upper limb strain during complex surgical procedures [7]