Press Release: Commission asks workers and employers what action should be taken to combat musculoskeletal disorders

The European Commission announced that is was seeking the views of workers' and employers' representatives on how best to tackle the growing problem of musculoskeletal disorders (MSD), 12 November 2004. These ailments, which include back pain and repetitive strain injury, are the biggest health and safety problem facing European workers today. Studies show that they affect over 40 million workers in all sectors across the EU and account for 40 to 50 per cent of all work-related ill-health. They are costing employers across the EU billions of euros. The problem is eroding Europe's competitiveness and leading to losses of 0.5 to 2 per cent of GNP each year.

• Primary Source

European Agency for Safety and Health at Work: Good practice: Risks: Musculoskeletal disorders http://europe.osha.europa.eu/good_practice/risks/msd/

European Commission: DG Employment and Social Affairs: News, 12.11.04 http://ec.europa.eu/comm/employment_social/news/2004/nov/musculoskeletaldisorders_en.html

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