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Most common work-related health problem in Europe

Most common work-related health problem in Europe. A quarter of workers report suffering from backache and a similar proportion complain of muscular pains; in the new Member States, the figure is almost 40%

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Most common work-related health problem in Europe

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  1. Most common work-related health problem in Europe • A quarter of workers report suffering from backache and a similar proportion complain of muscular pains; in the new Member States, the figure is almost 40% • Agriculture and construction workers report most musculoskeletal complaints, however all sectors are concerned • A quarter of the time or more: • two thirds of workers are exposed to repetitive hand and arm movements • a half work in painful or tiring positions • a third carry or move heavy loads

  2. MSDs affect…… • Muscles, joints, tendons, ligaments and nerves in the back, neck, shoulders and upper/lower limbs • The risk factors, working alone or in combination, include: • physical - force, repetitive movements, vibration, awkward postures • organisational - low autonomy/job satisfaction, repetitive work at a high pace • individual - medical history, physical capacity, age

  3. Lighten the Load • A European campaign to tackle MSDs in the workplace • Builds on the 2000 European campaign • Backed by the EU Presidencies of Germany and Portugal, European Parliament, European Commission and European social partners • Culminates in the European Week of Safety and Health at Work from 22 to 26 October 2007

  4. Lighten the Load — aims • Promotes an integrated management approach with three elements: • employers, employees and government working together • addressing the “whole load on the body” — ie all the strains being put on the body, as well as the load being carried • managing the retention, rehabilitation and return to work of those with MSDs

  5. MSDs are preventable if the right action is taken • We all share responsibility for tackling MSDs: • employers are legally required to assess workplace risks and protect workers • safety isn’t all down to the employer - workers should co-operate with employers to protect themselves • safety representatives/institutions, governments and policy-makers have roles

  6. Where to find out more • There is more help and advice on how to stay safe and healthy at work on the Lighten the Load website - http://ew2007.osha.europa.eu • And the MSDs Single Entry Point - http://osha.europa.eu/topics/msds

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