Preventing Musculoskeletal Injuries for Home Workers: Employer Responsibilities

Since the pandemic the rise of remote work has transformed the modern workplace, offering flexibility and convenience to employees. However, it also introduces new challenges, particularly the risk of musculoskeletal injuries (MSIs) stemming from poor workstation setups, prolonged sitting, and repetitive tasks. As an employer, you have a legal and ethical duty to protect the health and safety of your remote workforce, including preventing MSIs.

Understanding Musculoskeletal Injuries (MSIs)

MSIs affect muscles, tendons, ligaments, and other soft tissues, often caused or aggravated by:

• Poor posture.
• Inadequate workstation ergonomics.
• Repetitive movements.
• Prolonged static positions.

Common examples include back pain, neck strain, wrist injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome, and shoulder tension. These issues can lead to reduced productivity, absenteeism, and long-term health problems if left unaddressed.

Employer Responsibilities

Employers are legally required to safeguard employee health and safety, whether work is conducted on-site or at home. Key regulations include:

The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974

Employers must ensure the health, safety, and welfare of all employees, including those working remotely.

The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999

Employers must carry out risk assessments for all employees, including those working from home, to identify and mitigate hazards.

The Display Screen Equipment (DSE) Regulations 1992

These regulations specifically address risks associated with computer use, such as workstation ergonomics. Employers must ensure proper DSE assessments and provide guidance on safe working practices.

Steps Employers Should Take to Prevent MSIs for Home Workers

1. Conduct a Home Working Risk Assessment

• Ensure that employees’ home workspaces are safe and ergonomic.
• Assess factors such as desk height, chair support, screen positioning, and lighting.
• Offer self-assessment tools or virtual assessments for employees to identify potential risks.

2. Provide Ergonomic Equipment

• Supply or reimburse essential items like adjustable chairs, desks, external keyboards, and monitor stands.
• Encourage employees to avoid working from sofas or beds, which can strain muscles and joints.

3. Offer Training on Ergonomics

• Educate employees about proper posture, optimal workstation setup, and safe work habits.
• Share resources, such as videos or guides, on arranging a comfortable and healthy workspace.

4. Encourage Regular Breaks and Movement

• Promote the “20-20-20” rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
• Suggest short, frequent breaks to stretch, walk, or adjust posture.
• Provide access to online exercise programs or apps focused on desk stretches.

5. Monitor and Support Employee Wellbeing

• Maintain regular communication to address health concerns.
• Encourage employees to report discomfort early, before it escalates into a more serious issue.
• Consider occupational health referrals for employees experiencing persistent issues.

6. Review Policies and Procedures

• Update your health and safety policy to reflect home working arrangements.
• Clearly outline employer and employee responsibilities for maintaining a safe home working environment.

Balancing Employer and Employee Responsibilities

While employers play a crucial role in preventing MSIs, employees also share responsibility for their health and safety. Encourage employees to:

• Follow ergonomic guidance provided.
• Make necessary adjustments to their workstations.
• Take breaks and avoid prolonged static postures.

Collaboration between employers and employees is essential to create a safe and healthy home working environment.

Benefits of Preventing MSIs for Home Workers

Proactively addressing musculoskeletal risks offers several advantages:

• Improved employee health and wellbeing.
• Increased productivity and job satisfaction.
• Reduced absenteeism and long-term health costs.
• Demonstrated commitment to employee care and compliance with legal obligations.

Conclusion

Remote working is here to stay, and so is the need to prioritise employee health and safety in home offices. By conducting risk assessments, providing ergonomic support, and fostering a culture of health awareness, employers can prevent musculoskeletal injuries and build a resilient, productive workforce.

Getting Started

As you have no doubt deduced this is no small undertaking and that’s where we can help. We offer a range of training courses and consultation services that will quickly bring you up to speed and make your workplace safer.

• Talk to us now – All our contact details can be found here.
• We have a range of E-learning courses available to help you develop health and safety in your business specifically:
• Display Screen Awareness
• Assessing Display Screen Equipment