Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are the most common work-related health issues in the European Union (EU). According to the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA, 2015), three out of five workers report symptoms related to musculoskeletal pain, discomfort, or injury in the workplace, while MSDs account for 60% of all occupational health problems. The most frequent types include back pain and muscle aches in the shoulders, neck, and upper limbs.
Key causes of these conditions include tiring or painful postures, repetitive movements, and the handling of heavy objects, as highlighted by EU data (2020).
Manual handling, one of the primary causes of MSDs, refers to the lifting, lowering, pushing, pulling, or carrying of loads using hands or physical strength. It includes activities such as lifting, lowering, pushing, pulling, and moving objects.
Understanding the risks associated with manual handling, using appropriate assessment tools, and implementing effective measures are essential to reducing injuries and enhancing workplace safety.
Tips for Reducing Risks When Manual Handling is Necessary
For Workers:
- Avoid or minimise handling loads that exceed your physical capacity.
- Avoid working at excessive speeds without adequate rest breaks.
- Inform your supervisor promptly if you experience any problems or difficulties.
For Employers:
- Ensure the working environment is safe, non-slippery, ergonomically designed, and appropriately heated or cooled.
- Provide adequate training to workers for injury prevention and risk reduction.
- Ensure the workplace meets ergonomic standards, such as:
- Reducing transport distances.
- Avoiding movements like twisting or lifting loads from floor level or above shoulder height.
- Take into account the spcific needs of workers who are more vulnerable to injuries, such as:
- Workers with disabilities or pre-existing health conditions.
- Employees returning to work after an injury.
- Encourage workers to avoid excessive work paces and follow safety guidelines.
Benefits for Employers and Workers
For Workers:
- Reduced injuries and strain.
- Improved physical and mental health.
- Increased productivity and confidence.
For Employers:
- Reduced sick leave due to injuries.
- Improved productivity and efficiency.
- Enhanced organisational reputation.
Preventing injuries through simple measures is crucial, as it contributes to creating a safe, healthy, and productive workplace. However, the effectiveness of manual handling training largely depends on the proper implementation of techniques in the workplace. To improve safety, multidimensional interventions that combine training with ergonomic improvements, as well as strength and flexibility exercise programmes, have shown promising results in reducing musculoskeletal injuries and improving workers’ physical well-being.
Blog written by Michail Arvanitidis
References:
- EU-OSHA. Work-Related MSDs Prevalence, Costs, and Demographics in the EU
- European Commission Statistics on Work-Related Health Problems
- HSE Guidelines on Manual Handling
- Manual handling at work: A brief guide
- Clemes SA, Haslam CO, Haslam RA. What constitutes effective manual handling training? A systematic review. Occup Med (Lond). 2010;60(2):101-107. doi:10.1093/occmed/kqp127
