Following the introduction of a new computer system, a company experienced a large increase in the reporting of ULDs.

On assessment of the task, the environment and individual factors, the new software was deemed inadequate for its intended use.

To reduce the risk of ULDs, the following was implemented:

• Computer equipment, including furniture, was reviewed by the safety manager.


• Changes to workstation layout, including mouse and keyboard, to improve upper limb postures.


• software changed to reduce repetition


• Alterations to work patterns and shifts and rectification of other organisational factors such as poor quality control and deadline control.

Suggestions:
Identify ULD risk factors, undertake a pilot of any new software and encourage early reporting of symptoms to minimise damage.

For the full case study from the HSE website, click here: http://www.hse.gov.uk/msd/experience/computer.htm

Incorrect DSE setup is often the cause of work-related injuries. Take the following example from the HSE website:

Jane works in a busy call centre. Her work requires repetitive use of a mouse and keyboard and constant use of a display screen...

Who do the experts in occupational health use when equipping their own offices? Posturite, of course.

The company was called in to supply all the furniture and equipment for Premier Occupational Healthcare’s move to a new headquarters building in Folkestone.

As one of the UK’s leading providers of occupational health and wellbeing services, Premier recognised the importance of ensuring that its own premises met the highest standards of ergonomic efficiency.
So it turned to Posturite to plan the fitting out of its new high-spec building at Shearway Business Park.

Included in the contract was all the seating, desking and storage for the reception area, general office, boardroom and clinical rooms.

Security and safety are paramount to the City of London Police. The 880-strong force, backed up by 400 civilian support staff, are responsible for ensuring that the 6,000 residents who live in the ‘Square Mile’ and the 350,000 workers and tourists who pass through it daily, are able to do so without hindrance or fear.

So it followed that when the City’s police force were looking to refurbish the Wood Street offices of their scientific support unit, the safety and health of the 15 people based there was uppermost in their minds.