Understanding Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs)
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) include a range of injuries and conditions that affect the back, joints, and limbs, often exacerbated by work-related activities. High-risk tasks that contribute to MSDs encompass manual handling, repetitive work, awkward postures, and exposure to vibrations. Incorrect use of display screen equipment, such as PCs and smartphones, also poses significant risks.
The Numbers Speak: Impact of MSDs in the Workplace
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) Report for 2023 sheds light on the profound impact of work-related musculoskeletal disorders in Great Britain. Over the past year, 473,000 workers were affected by MSDs, leading to the loss of 6.6 million workdays. These disorders represent 27% of all work-related ill-health cases and 21% of all working days lost due to work-related ill health, with the highest prevalence in agriculture, construction, healthcare, administrative and support service sectors. Skilled trades and workers over 45 are particularly vulnerable. Key factors include manual handling and repetitive actions, highlighting the critical need for better workplace ergonomics and preventive measures.
Detailed Findings from the HSE Report
The report details that musculoskeletal disorders predominantly affect the back, upper limbs, neck, and lower limbs. Of all working days lost due to work-related MSDs, conditions affecting the back account for 44% of these with an estimated 14.9 days lost per case. This compares with conditions affecting the upper limbs and neck that accounts for 27% of these working days lost (9 days lost per case) and conditions affecting the lower limbs that account for 29% (23.4 days lost per case). Skilled trades, caring roles, and process operatives report higher rates of disorders, with older workers (aged 45 and above) facing significantly elevated risks.
Addressing the Challenge: A Multifaceted Approach
The report highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive strategy to tackle this concerning trend. This includes improved ergonomics, awareness campaigns, early detection, and effective intervention strategies to safeguard the health of the workforce.
How SpatialCortex Can Make a Difference
Our innovative solution, MOVA, is designed to help businesses understand, anticipate, reduce, and prevent manual-handling injuries and MSDs in a data-driven and proactive manner. By leveraging advanced technology, MOVA empowers organizations to enhance workplace safety and protect the well-being of their employees.
Discover more about SpatialCortex MOVA
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