Keeping every BODY moving well at work

The Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) together with the district councils have launched a campaign targeting Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSD) which aims to keep everybody moving well at work. 

A significant proportion of workplace injuries and absenteeism in Northern Ireland can be attributed to MSDs, which include back injuries, neck and upper limb disorders (ULDs) and lower limb disorders (LLDs).

HSENI and district councils will be working to raise awareness amongst employers to underline key messages such as encouraging them to take action to prevent or minimise MSDs and highlight that early reporting of symptoms, proper treatment and suitable rehabilitation is essential.      

The campaign will also aim to improve management of the risks typically associated with these types of injuries and will incorporate inspections on a range of sectors where workers are at risk of suffering from MSDs. 

Speaking at the launch of the new campaign HSENI’s Deputy Chief Executive, Dr Monson, said:

 “Considering the fact that over half of all reported work related illnesses in Northern Ireland are attributable to back, muscle and joint pain, the cost to the employers, and the suffering experienced by employees, is significant and needs to be tackled.  

“It is clearly in employers’ interests to ensure the health and well being of their employees, while at work, and I welcome this campaign to highlight their role in taking steps to reduce and eliminate the risk of their staff suffering from MSDs.   

“It is in the best interest of employers to work to reduce the risk of MSDs among their staff.  Happy, healthy employees are more likely to be present, motivated and productive.”

Patricia Allen from the Councils’ Northern Group Environmental Health Service added: 

“Whilst not attempting to dilute the impact of MSDs on both working individuals and businesses, we want to use this campaign to give businesses very positive messages around prevention and management. Firstly it is possible to implement measures to reduce or eliminate MSDs. 

“Secondly prevention does not necessarily cost a lot of money and is cost effective. To support businesses we are distributing free practical guidance on the prevention and management of MSDs. This contains useful case studies and resources, including an audit tool that will allow both businesses and inspectors to determine how effectively MSDs are currently being managed in the workplace and identify what further action may be needed.

“Inspectors will be handing out the guidance during their visits but I would encourage any business to access the guidance online from the HSENI website.”

For more information visit the HSENI website at the following link:  http://www.hseni.gov.uk/msd

HSENI Press release