Musculoskeletal disorders in hotels, catering and restaurants, bars, pubs, etc.

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.

Justification

15% of major injuries in the hotel and catering sector are due to handling, lifting or carrying. Last year handling, lifting or carrying resulted in 156 major injuries.

Audience/Industry

MSDs, including Upper Limb Disorders (ULDs), are ubiquitous in nature, occurring across all sectors of Hotel, Catering, Restaurants, Bars, pubs, etc. Employees most at risk include cleaners, those involved in food preparation and laundry. 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 ULD checklists where appropriate to determine level of risk.
• For cleaning work which involves hard manual work, awkward postures, time constraints and vibrating equipment ensure activity designed to reduce risks.
• For food preparation work which involves repetitive tasks ensure the activity is designed to reduce risks.
• For laundry work ensure lifting aids are available where necessary.
• 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