PROBLEMS AT WORK AND SCIATICA: A NOTE FOR EMPLOYERS
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While meeting the requirements of the various regulations may at times be expensive, it obviously makes good sense for employers to do so because otherwise the serious ill effects of work-related disorders can also lead to high costs. The HSE points out that these costs can include:
Sick pay, loss of production due to poor performance, sickness absence and poor industrial relations; and
Possible compensation payments. Considerable sums have been won in civil claims and this may increase the cost of Employers’ Liability Compulsory Insurance.
To reduce the risk of work-related disorders, the HSE recommends that employers should:
Make sure that work systems cater for the differences in people’s size, strength and abilities. Wherever possible allow people some control over work speed.
Think about any possible risks when planning changes to work methods or when buying new machinery or equipment. Check with suppliers that ergonomic principles have been incorporated in the design of new equipment.
Consider a programme of ‘health surveillance’. This could include a system for keeping records of problems when they first appear and for prompt medical assessment to anyone reporting problems. Encourage early reporting of symptoms (a positive safety culture will help) and look at sickness absence records and staff turnover.
Look into the possibility of alternative work or job changes when someone cannot continue their current type of work or where this will aid the return to work of someone who has been off sick.
Monitor as frequently as necessary to check the effectiveness of your control measures. Look, for example, to possible adjustment of workstations and seating, working techniques, maintenance arrangements. Be alert to any increase in work-related ailments in the workplace, for example, after a change of process, speed or working technique.
Finally, review your arrangements periodically.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Safety at work is, of course, a vast subject. For more detailed information consult the following HSE books and leaflets which you can order from HSE Books on 01787 881165:
Seating at work; Lighting at work; Ergonomics at work; Working with VDUs; Lighten the load: guidance for employers on musculoskeletal disorders; Management of health and safety at work; Approved code of practice; Work equipment: guidance on regulations; Manual handling: guidance on regulations; Workplace health, safety and welfare: approved code of practice; Display screen equipment work: guidance on regulations.
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