Musculoskeletal disorders in hairdressing and beauty services

Aim

Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) are problems affecting the muscles, tendons and ligaments, nerves or other soft tissues and joints. Whilst MSDs can happen inside or outside the work environment they are often made worse by work activities. Our aim is to raise awareness of MSDs, to encourage reasonably practicable control measures and take enforcement action as appropriate.

Audience/Industry

MSDs, including upper limb disorders, are ubiquitous in nature, occurring across all of the personnel services sector. Hairdressing involves repetitive activities and awkward postures which can lead to upper limb disorders. This list is not exhaustive, and there are many other jobs that carry a risk of Musculoskeletal Disorders.

Messages

MSDs, can be very debilitating for those who suffer them. However, tackling them is often straightforward and can bring huge benefits for those affected. You cannot prevent all MSDs so early reporting of symptoms, proper treatment and suitable rehabilitation is essential.

Activities required

• Raise awareness of the risks, and appropriate control measures
• Use Manual Handling Assessment Charts (MAC) or Upper Limb Disorder (ULD) checklists where appropriate to determine level of risk. Consider appropriate breaks and tool design to reduce upper limb disorders.
• Take enforcement action where appropriate (see topic inspection pack for guidance on enforcement and enforcement notice templates).

Timing

MSDs throughout 2008/09 as part of normal inspection regime.

Contact

msdpp@hse.gsi.gov.uk

For information

Detailed guidance on inspections:

• MSD topic inspection pack [510KB]

Further information can be found on the HSE website:

• www.hse.gov.uk/msd