Project – involves other topics as well Musculoskeletal Disorders.
Work with Royal Mail Group contributes to the Large Organisations Partnership scheme (LOP). Both HSE and LAs have inspection and enforcement responsibilities. This work is a continuation of activity started a number of years ago.
To achieve jointly established health and safety targets - including on Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) - within an agreed timescale via Local Action Plans. Collaboration between HSE and LAs to promote sustainable improvements rather than temporary ones, through involving Royal Mail’s Area Management Teams and the Trade Unions more directly in the management of health and safety. Over the last two years, Local Action Plans have been developed for 20 specific Royal Mail Areas, and in 2009-10 it is intended that the last remaining areas will also be completed.
According to Royal Mail’s corporate social responsibility report, 19% of sickness absence related to ill health is due to musculoskeletal disorders. In addition to this, 22% of accidents are associated with lifting and handling.
Some accidents occur in sorting offices (LA enforced) and to postmen/women on delivery rounds (HSE enforced). Partnership working between HSE and LAs is important for this industry in order to achieve sustained reductions in accident figures.
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.
Enforcing authority inspections of Royal Mail have been undertaken nationwide for the last five years. During that time LA and HSE inspectors have repeatedly provided advice and guidance on the key hazards (including MSDs). As a result, there is now an expectation that Royal Mail should be demonstrating extensive compliance.
In areas where new Local Action Plans are to be developed:
during April 2009, HSE and LA inspectors will meet with Royal Mail and TUs to develop and agree the Local Action Plans;
following their launch HSE and LAs will monitor progress against timetable. Inspections to assess compliance will take place in Spring 2010.
In areas not already subject to a Local Action Plan, or those where Local Action plans have been completed, normal inspection and enforcement activity should continue.
Inspectors should be aware of who (in terms of diversity e.g. men, women, disabled etc) is the target group in the sector they are dealing with. Give consideration to, and factor into the approach, any issues that may surround this audience such as literacy issues, English as a second language and disability (access needs).
The Diversity pages give more information on these areas.
