According to the Health & Safety Executive in 2019/2020 480,000 workers are suffering from work-related musculoskeletal disorders (new or long standing). The industries with a higher than average rates of musculoskeletal disorders are agriculture, forestry and fishing, construction and human health and social work activities.
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) are injuries or disorders of the muscles, nerves, tendons, joints, cartilage and spinal discs. They mostly affect the lower back, shoulders, forearms, wrists and hands. The neck, hips, legs, knees, ankles and feet can also be affected.
Examples of musculoskeletal disorders are: -
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Rotator Cuff Injury
- Tendonitis
- HAVS
- Repetitive strain injury
- Bursitis
These can be work related in so far as they can be attributed wholly due to working conditions or exacerbated and/or accelerated by them. Symptoms can include aches and pains, stiffness, burning sensations, weakness, tingling, reduced movements in the joints and cramps and swelling.
Employers have a duty to protect the health and safety of their employees under several pieces of legislation and the Health and Safety Executive notes that employers must protect workers from the risks of musculoskeletal disorders being caused by or made worse by work.
Their duties include ensuring appropriate risk assessments are carried out, avoiding hazardous manual handling and ensuring appropriate workstation assessments. They are expected to manage the risk of prolonged repetitive work and awkward postures, and assess tasks such as: -
- Bending
- Stooping
- Carrying heavy loads
- Twisting
- Stretching
- Handheld power tools
- Working with display screen equipment
If you believe you have suffered a musculoskeletal disorder as a result of working conditions, please contact us to discuss the matter on 0800 988 8082 or complete our online enquiry form and a member of our team will get back to you right away.
