Back pain is a major cause of work-related sickness absence in the UK, and one in five of those who suffer work-related ill health complain of back problems. Earlier in 2006, the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSE NI) and district councils began a campaign to raise the profile of the problem. "Backs NI" aims to improve compliance with the law relating to manual handling and in particular achieve effective control to reduce the risk of work-related back injury as part of an overall campaign to reduce the cases of musculoskeletal disorders in workplaces throughout Northern Ireland.
Back pain can often be controlled and preventative measures can help with its management, such as staying active while at work. In addition, the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations (Northern Ireland) SR 2000/388 and the Manual Handling Operations Regulations (Northern Ireland) SR 1992/535, require employers to carry out risk assessments so protective and preventive measures can be arranged. There is also a responsibility on employees to assess the risks themselves, and take actions to reduce them.
Further information on this subject is available from the HSE NI, and their small business advisory service, Health and Safety Works NI.
