The European Week of Safety and Health at Work is set to run from 22 to 26 October 2007, and will focus on musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).

MSDs are the most common form of ill health disorders at work, both in the UK and across Europe. Work-related MSDs affect about one million people in Great Britain every year. Problems include back pain, work-related neck and upper limb disorders, including repetitive strain injuries and lower limb disorders. Raising awareness, prevention and management are all important factors in reducing MSDs.


Run by the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work, the campaign will involve employers, workers, workers' safety representatives, practitioners, preventive services, policy makers and other stakeholders in improving MSD prevention at workplace level. Action Packs containing useful information for employers are now available.

(CL)