Risk news

A new study out this week claims to show that a large proportion of office workers are suffering from chronic health issues linked to "poor ergonomics'.

According to visual display company ViewSonic, over three quarters of office workers (77%) currently suffer from eye fatigue, while 71% have back problems and 67% experience headaches.

The survey of 1,500 UK office workers by market research firm Tickbox.net also showed a link between poor ergonomics knowledge and an increase in such symptoms. One third admitted to "not knowing where to start" when it came to improving their desktop environment, and only 15% had bothered to find out for themselves.

Almost half of workers (47%) claimed that they had not been offered advice on the best desktop layout or ergonomics best practice by their employer in the last 12 months.

Worryingly, 46% of those questioned spent six or more hours in front of their computer screens every day, with the (51%) failing to scheduling appropriate breaks. Most blamed excessive workloads or pressure from managers and colleagues.

'Tailored approach'
Also this week, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has published the long-term findings of a study into the impact of the so-called "stage of change" approach to tackling musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) at work.

The approach acknowledges the importance of addressing attitudes at work, rather than just the physical aspects of the work environment, and tailoring any interventions to the individual.

Researchers from Loughborough University said they had found "strong evidence" for the long-term effectiveness of tailored interventions versus standard interventions "in promoting behaviour change and reducing musculoskeletal discomfort."

Their report concluded: "Wide adoption of this approach is likely to make a significant contribution to reducing both the prevalence and incidence of MSDs."

The full research report can be downloaded from the HSE website - see link above/right.

Good practice awards
Finally, the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work this week invited nominations for the eighth European Good Practice Awards in occupational health and safety - which this year focusses on tackling musculoskeletal disorders.

The Agency is calling for examples of "good practice" from across the European Union, either from businesses or from other organisations such as chambers of commerce, trade and professional organisations and trade unions.

"Musculoskeletal disorders are the most common work-related health problem in Europe," said Jukka Takala, director of the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work. "Across the EU, 25% of workers suffer from backache and 23% have muscular pains.

"Many problems can be prevented or greatly reduced through employers complying with existing safety and health law and following good practice. Through our 'Lighten the Load' campaign and the good practice awards competition we will demonstrate that there are specific actions that can be taken if MSDs are to be tackled effectively."