Employers must protect workers from the risks of MSDs being caused or made worse by work
 

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Health and Safety Executive

HSE ebulletin

Issued: 18 November 2024

Further updates and guidance on Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) can be found on the HSE website.

HSE launch new MSD body mapping tool

HSE have developed a body mapping tool which will help workers report and discuss any musculoskeletal aches or pains that may be caused or made worse by work activities. 

It will also help businesses to proactively engage with their workers to identify workplace tasks or activities that may cause MSD discomfort and provide a forum to discuss practical solutions to reduce risk.  

Musculoskeletal injuries and conditions can affect the back, joints and limbs. The aim of body mapping is to prevent any aches or pains from becoming worse or chronic, potentially leading to long-term discomfort or sickness absence. 

Visit this webpage to access the body mapping tool, along with a guide and posters on how to run a successful body mapping workshop. 


Minimise manual handling risks as the festive season approaches

We are approaching the busiest time of the year in the haulage and distribution industry and extra demand on workers may result in an increased risk of injury from hazardous manual handling.

You can find help with preventing these sort of risks in your workplace on our manual handling webpages.

They have a range of useful information and guidance for employers, including sections on assessing manual handling and training for workers.

There are also links to a variety of useful resources, which include free versions of HSE's publications:

  • Manual handling at work: a brief guide
  • Manual handling: guidance on Regulations


MSD Risk-reduction through design awards

We are looking to award businesses that have made simple changes to their workplace, tasks or activities that have resulted in reduced musculoskeletal risk to their employees. 

These changes could include reducing lifting, pushing or pulling activities, reducing awkward postures while using equipment or removing the need for manual handling altogether. 

If you are an employer in the UK, and you have made design changes that have reduced musculoskeletal risks in your workplace, then nominate yourselves for the awards.   

You have until 31 January 2024 to submit your nominations.

Further details about the awards, including details on how to enter and case studies of previous winners are available on our website.   

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