The musculoskeletal health of hairdressers

This article is one in a series of discussion papers looking at sectors that have a high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). It summarises the findings of a review undertaken as part of the ergoHair project, which aims to promote a healthy and safe working environment in the hairdressing sector.

The article reviews the evidence and concludes that several tasks and aspects of their work put hairdressers at significant risk of developing MSDs. Some have to leave the profession early because of the adverse effects of their work on their health. The authors suggest measures that could reduce the risks of hairdressers developing MSDs and areas for future work.