Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) remain a significant challenge in workplace safety, with the private sector reporting 976,090 musculoskeletal disorder cases that led to days off of work in 2021-2022. These injuries, often caused by repetitive motion, force, vibration, and awkward positions, can result in severe sprains, strains, and back injuries.
According to OSHA and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), workers in warehouse and distribution roles also face some of the highest rates of serious injury, particularly from overexertion. Reducing these risks not only protects physical health, but also contributes to stronger retention and overall employee well-being.
Innovative Risk Management Solutions
Amerisure’s commitment to pioneering innovative safety solutions has recently seen remarkable advancements under the National Safety Council’s (NSC) MSD Solutions Lab. With a focus on cutting-edge technology to combat workplace injuries, Amerisure was awarded a safety grant to pilot HeroWear’s Apex 2 exosuits, designed to mitigate lower back injuries—a prevalent concern in MSD-related claims.
“Amerisure is proud to support the NSC’s efforts to develop repeatable, real-world safety solutions,” said Ryan Anderson, Risk Management Technology Programs Manager at Amerisure.
“We see firsthand how physically demanding jobs take a toll on workers. That’s why we’re so focused on prevention—especially through emerging technologies that help our policyholders protect their teams.”
Real Results
Amerisure partnered with several policyholders across various regions to evaluate the impact of HeroWear exosuits in real-world work environments. Two organizations participated in a 90-day pilot program, while another conducted an extended 12-month evaluation.
During this time, employees integrated these cutting-edge exosuits into their daily routines; extensive feedback was collected through employee surveys, alongside critical HR metrics like injury rates, productivity levels, absenteeism, and turnover rates. This comprehensive data collection allowed the study to capture both the quantitative and qualitative benefits of the exosuit technology in real-world applications.
The results were compelling:
- One company reported a 40.74% decrease in worker fatigue from heavy lifting and a 26.92% reduction in lower back discomfort
- Another detailed a 42.19% reduction in fatigue from heavy lifts alongside a 32.84% reduction in lower back discomfort
- Among nearly 100 workers using exosuits for over a year, zero back strain injuries were reported, along with an average 42% reduction in lower back discomfort and a 26% drop in work-related fatigue
“At Amerisure, my goal in working with each of my clients is to mitigate any potential risks to their business—which includes protecting each of their workers,” said Anderson. “It’s exciting to see measurable results in the data—but even more meaningful to witness firsthand how this technology is improving safety, comfort, and confidence on the job.”
Promising Results and Future Plans
Following a successful showcase at the National Safety Council’s Annual Congress and Expo last fall, plans are underway to expand the use of the HeroWear exosuits across more policyholders—bringing this proven safety innovation to more workplaces where it can have a meaningful impact.
“We are thrilled to be identified among the nation’s top safety innovators and work together with the NSC in implementing cutting-edge solutions for the prevention of workplace injuries,” said Kevin Clary, Vice President of Risk Management at Amerisure. “Our participation in the grant program reflects a core part of our service philosophy—delivering emerging safety technologies that help our agency partners and policyholders create safer, more resilient workplaces.”
For more updates and to explore how we’re working together to make safety a priority, visit amerisure.com
