This case study examines the ErgoKita project, which studied risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in nursery-school teachers and the effects of an intervention. It started with physiological work measurement, covering awkward postures such as sitting and lifting, and included provision...

This series of short informative case studies looks at a range of policy level initiatives across Europe and beyond aiming to prevent and manage work-related MSDs. The studies focus on achievements, factors contributing to their success and challenges encountered, and transferability to other...

This case study highlights Germany’s holistic approach to tackling musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), facilitated by a comprehensive legal framework. MSDs are the most common cause of absence from work in Germany, and preventing them is one of the priorities of the Joint German Occupational Safety...

On the LU site in La Haye-Fouassière, near Nantes, the lines largely automated to make cookies, run at full speed. However, the plant has been identified by Carsat Pays-de-la-Loire as a risky company in terms of MSDs. The whole company, members of the CHSCT, occupational nurse, managers and...

This report focuses on the retention, reintegration and rehabilitation of workers with MSDs. It comes in two parts: a literature review on the effectiveness of work-related interventions, and an overview of policy initiatives in Europe and at the international level.

Almost two thirds of EU workers report being exposed to repetitive hand and arm movements, and a quarter to vibrations from tools - significant risk factors for work-related neck and upper limb disorders (WRULDs). Many workers, in a wide range of jobs, develop WRULDs and they are the most common...

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are the most common workrelated problem in Europe. Almost 24 % of the EU-25 workers report suffering from backache and 22 % complain about muscular pains. Both conditions are more prevalent in the new Member States, 39 % and 36 % respectively.