WORK RELATED UPPER LIMBS DISORDERS (WRULD)

Work-related upper limb disorders (WRULD) are potentially disabling conditions affecting everything from backache and prolapsed (or slipped) discs to tenosynovitis, repetitive-strain-injury (RSI), Musculoskeletal disorders (MSD), pain, numbness, swelling and tingling in the fingers, hands, wrists and arms. Occupations at risk include office/clerical workers; VDU operators; Supermarket cashiers; Assembly-line workers, Packers and Pickers, Refuse collectors, Road workers and Street cleaners. (This is not an exhaustive list).

The hazards:

• Application of excessive force over long periods on the muscles, joints, tendons and the nervous system;
  
• A work rate or work pattern which is frequent and intense;
  
• Work which involves rapid repetitive movements;
  
• Awkward, rigid or sustained working conditions which effects posture;
  
• Work involving twisting, gripping or over-stretching;
  
• Poor work equipment or tool design;
  
• Poor workstation or workplace design (particularly in relation to VDUs);
  
• Lack of job variation;
  
• Cold temperatures;
  
• Vibrating tools;
  
• Inadequate rest and/or recovery breaks;
  
• Speeding up of production line;
  
• Inadequate training or instruction; and
  
• Changes in the work process, which fails to take into account the needs and requirements of the person doing the job.

Controlling the hazards:

• There should be a workplace policy on WRULDs;
  
• Frequent and sufficient rest and/or recovery breaks;
  
• Regular assessments of the work environment for each employee, followed by the necessary adjustments to the work rate, work pattern or environment if necessary; and
  
• Clear instruction and supervision and the clear communication of information on the symptoms of WRULDs and what employees should do if they think they may be affected;

A “suitable and sufficient” risk assessment, which involves the employee and/or employees’ representatives is the key to protecting against WRULDs or any other form of Repetitive Strain Injury.

Produced by the GMB, London Region,
Thorne House, 152 Brent Street, Hendon. NW4 2DP
Tel: 020 8202 8272
Fax: 020 8202 2893