Support should be available for individuals who are experiencing musculoskeletal ill-health at work through:
- Early action if a MSK problem that affects everyday activities including work
- Open conversations
- Early access to professional support – Occupational Health, ergonomics, physiotherapy and follow the advice
- Adjustments in the workplace – often simple
- Support tailored by joining up employee, healthcare team and line manager
Key actions as an employer to support individuals who are experiencing musculoskeletal ill-health at work
- Understand the physical and psychosocial impact of MSK conditions.
- Enable, encourage and respond to early reporting of MSK problems. Ask, listen, act, feedback and learn for another time.
- Facilitate early intervention with clear pathways and by looking for simple solutions and adaptations to work.
- Know what resources are available to enable workers to manage their MSK problem in the workplace and where to signpost workers for information and support ,such as occupational health and physio services.
- Ensure employees know their rights and what support they can ask for.
- Enable and provide opportunities for employees to speak up and work together with employers, managers and health professionals to find solutions
- Be flexible in finding solutions to enable workers to stay in work.
- Learn from MSK problems that present, review work practices and then integrate any lessons into work practices and training.
Now see the other actions to take
