Musculoskeletal disorders in the ports industry

Port workers carry out a number of activities which, if not properly managed, may lead to a variety of 'musculoskeletal disorders' (MSDs).

These include back pain and muscle injuries, and are often the result of poor handling techniques or through tasks involving repetitive movements and/or excessive force.

Injuries can also be caused by the vibration created by some vehicles - this is known as whole-body vibration. Some people may not fully recover from MSDs and they can greatly affect your quality of life.

Where MSD hazards can be found in ports

• Manual manoeuvring of lifting gear and attachments or slung loads
• Handling of twist locks and unlocking poles
• Lifting/manoeuvring of lashing bars
• Breaking out pre-packed or palleted loads
• Storage and warehousing activities
• Hauling mooring ropes off large ships
• Vibration transmitted through the seat or feet of employees who drive mobile machines such as ro-ro tugs and other similar vehicles, over uneven ground or on rails.

How the risks can be reduced

For manual handling:

• Use mechanical aids such as motorised winches for hauling mooring ropes of large ships, vehicle mounted hydraulic hoists, portable roller conveyors, pallet trucks, scissor lifts and customised trolleys.
• Consider whether a load can be changed to make it easier to carry, for example, smaller packages, providing handles or hand-holds.
• Adopt safe lifting techniques.

For whole-body vibration:

• Use appropriate machinery for the job.
• Maintain plant and equipment, eg container cranes and rubber-tyred gantry cranes. Maintenance should include seats, suspension and visibility through windows.
• Maintain roadways, quays, container park surfaces and rails.
• Take account of vibration information when buying or hiring equipment.
• Provide drivers with information on how to reduce risks to their health.

Which laws apply?

• Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 (as amended)
• Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005

Further information

• Publications and guidance - Musculoskeletal disorders in the ports industry