NSC Report: Nearly 30% of Workers Don’t Report Pain on the Job
New survey finds disconnect between safety leaders’ perceptions and frontline worker experiences in musculoskeletal disorder prevention.
- By Stasia DeMarco
- Sep 22, 2025
Nearly 30% of workers who experience pain at work do not report it, and safety leaders consistently view their workplace culture more positively than frontline employees, according to new research from the National Safety Council.
The report, Frontline Worker Perspectives on Musculoskeletal Disorder Prevention, is based on survey data from 1,000 non-managerial workers across a range of industries. Findings reveal significant gaps between management perceptions and worker experiences in preventing musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).
“These findings offer a powerful reminder that safety cannot be achieved without the voice of those doing the work every day,” said Paige DeBaylo, PhD, director of the MSD Solutions Lab at NSC. “When we engage frontline workers meaningfully, we unlock new opportunities to reduce injuries, foster trust, and improve organizational safety culture.”
The MSD Solutions Lab, established in 2021 with funding from Amazon, published the report as part of ongoing efforts to address MSDs, the leading cause of workplace injuries. Researchers found that while most workers are aware of safety programs, many lack understanding of MSDs and remain unsure about how to report symptoms.
The findings will be discussed further at the MSD Solutions Lab virtual Town Hall on Sept. 23, where speakers will share real-world strategies to better involve frontline workers in safety efforts.
About the Author
Stasia DeMarco is the Content Editor for OH&S.