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This post is by Anthony Savage of Sparta Health

Introduction

Musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders are the second biggest cause of work-related lost time in the UK. They are responsible for 29% of all lost time, with an average absence lasting 16 days.

MSK disorders are rarely injuries that require someone to be taken to hospital. They can arise suddenly, perhaps as a result of lifting something improperly and straining the back, or more often they emerge slowly over time, from regular repetitive activities or poor ergonomic conditions.

Because of the absence of “blue lights”, they can sometimes be given less priority by employers. However, there can be significant consequences of inadequate controls in the workplace.

In addition to lost working time, the costs of civil claims for MSK disorders can be significant. Whereas an accident may result in a serious injury, the long-term effects of MSK disorders on individuals can mean that the compensation payable in these situations is significant, especially when many control measures can often be relatively low cost and low trouble to implement. 

What are MSK disorders?

Simply put, MSK disorders are injuries or pain in the body’s joins, ligaments, muscles, nerves, tendons and structures that support the limbs, neck and back. They are also degenerative diseases and inflammatory conditions that cause pain and impair normal activities.

They can be broadly separated into two categories – those affecting the lower back, and those affecting the upper limbs. The cause and risk factors for these two types of MSK disorders are different, as are the methods of controlling them. 

Legal Requirements

The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 (HSW Act) requires employers to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare of their employees and to ensure that those affected by their activities are not exposed to risk. Health and safety law also applies to self-employed persons who create risks for others. 

Other legislation, including The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, builds upon the HSW Act and includes duties on employers to assess and control risks.

So, what can be done?

The following are a few examples of what can be done to help reduce MSK disorders in the workplace:

  •  Manual handling risk assessments
  • Addressing psychosocial risk factors – there is evidence of strong relations between psychosocial conditions at work and MSK disorders
  • Ergonomic assessments e.g. Display Screen Equipment assessments
  • Delivery of training to staff
  •  Health surveillance and monitoring
  • Access to return to work case management & rehabilitation services, including, for example the facilitation of access to physiotherapy services and specialist consultations. This can assist to keep employees in work and reduce lost time, as well as reducing the risk of civil claims and both the direct and indirect costs to a business.

We believe that only by gaining a thorough understanding of our client's needs are we able to put in place the best support solutions for them.

For a free, no obligation discussion on your health, wellbeing or absence management requirements, feel free to contact us

About Anthony Savage 

Anthony Savage is the Medical Services Manager at Sparta Health, having joined the team in 2017 and is responsible for the overall operational delivery of our high quality services to our clients. He has a solid background in workplace physiology, as well over 12 years of delivering, and holding senior management positions, for leading injury and condition management providers.

He is known for his innovative approach in his design and execution of services and his ability to build enduring relationships.

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