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Currently, in the United Kingdom, over 500,000 workers are affected by work-related musculoskeletal disorders. These professionals are employed across a variety of sectors, including construction, healthcare, and manufacturing. What are the underlying causes of these alarming figures, and how can British labourers avoid becoming part of this growing statistic?
What are MSDs?
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are conditions that affect muscles, bones, joints, tendons, and ligaments, typically causing pain and discomfort. They are often the result of repetitive strain, poor posture, overexertion, or awkward movements, especially during tasks involving heavy lifting, recurrent actions, or long periods of standing or sitting. Common examples of this kind of disorder include back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and tendonitis.
The people most exposed to musculoskeletal disorders are typically those in physically demanding or repetitive jobs. This includes construction workers who frequently lift and carry heavy loads, healthcare professionals such as nurses who move patients, and manufacturing workers who perform recurrent tasks on production lines.
Most Dangerous Activities that Can Cause MSDs
Certain activities are particularly hazardous. These include heavy lifting, which involves lifting or carrying heavy objects, especially without proper techniques. Repetitive movements, such as those performed in manufacturing or assembly lines, can also strain muscles and joints over time, leading to chronic issues.
Awkward postures, including bending, twisting, or working in confined spaces, increase stress on musculoskeletal structures. Pushing and pulling heavy loads, in turn, can lead to overexertion injuries.
Prolonged standing or sitting without breaks can lead to muscle fatigue and joint strain, especially if posture is poor.
Lastly, manual handling of patients, which healthcare workers often undertake, puts them at high risk of developing MSDs if they do not have adequate assistance or equipment.
Prevention Strategies for Avoiding MSDs
Various actions can be taken to prevent loading and unloading activities from negatively impacting workers’ health. These strategies involve the use of specialised lifting and handling techniques as well as equipment that facilitates vertical material movement, such as tail lifts and other mechanical aids. Here are a few tips.
1. Use Tail Lifts
Tail lifts are invaluable for businesses that handle heavy or bulky goods. By reducing the need for manual lifting, they minimise the risk of injuries while protecting goods from damage during transport. Their versatility makes them suitable for various industries, as they can handle a range of loads and be installed on different vehicles. Regular tail lift servicing ensures they operate reliably, making them a cost-effective, long-term investment that streamlines operations and enhances workplace safety.
2. Learn Safe Lifting Techniques
Start by assessing the load to determine its weight and size; if it is too heavy or awkward to manage, seek assistance or use appropriate lifting equipment. Position yourself close to the object, standing with your feet shoulder-width apart and one foot slightly forward for balance. Bend at your knees and hips, keeping your back straight, and rely on the strength of your legs – rather than your back – to lift. When lowering the load, bend your knees again while maintaining a straight back and keep the item close to your body. It’s crucial to know your physical limits; never attempt to lift items beyond your capacity, and always use assistive tools or seek help if needed.
3. Incorporate Assistive Tools
Equipment such as trolleys, dollies, and pallet jacks can make it easier to move heavy or bulky loads, reducing the need for manual effort. For tasks involving vertical lifting, devices like scissor lifts, hoists, or hydraulic platforms are instrumental. Step ladders, mobile platforms, or vertical conveyors can also minimise the risk of accidents while improving productivity. Moreover, anti-fatigue mats can be used for tasks requiring prolonged standing, providing additional support and comfort.
4. Maintain Workflow Organisation
Arrange storage areas strategically, placing heavier items at waist height to minimise the need for awkward bending or lifting. Frequently used items should be stored within easy reach, reducing unnecessary movements and time wasted searching for tools or materials. Clear pathways in workspaces are essential to prevent tripping hazards and ensure that equipment like trolleys or pallet jacks can move freely.
5. Reduce Repetitive Strain
Introduce task rotation, allowing employees to switch between roles that use different muscle groups or require varying levels of physical effort. Automating repetitive tasks with equipment like conveyor belts, robotic arms, or powered tools can also minimise manual effort. Encouraging regular breaks for stretching and movement is equally important, as it helps alleviate tension and improves circulation during prolonged repetitive activities. Providing ergonomic tools, such as adjustable chairs, workstations, or anti-vibration gloves, further reduces strain by ensuring employees can work in natural, comfortable positions.
These are straightforward actions that can significantly enhance workplace safety for millions of professionals, particularly in the construction and logistics sectors. With the right equipment and the best practices in place, the UK labour market can become not only far more efficient but, above all, much safer.
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