E-fact 16 - Hazards and risks leading to work-related neck and upper limb disorders (WRULDs)

WRULDs are the commonest occupational diseases in Europe. They usually develop gradually, the cumulative effect of many, apparently moderate applications of force, repeated over an extended period. The result is muscle fatigue, which can injure the soft tissue of the neck, shoulders and upper limbs. This web summary provides information on the WRULDs risk factors, relevant European legislation and risk assessment.