The personnel manager of a large service company sought advice from our physiotherapists on the high prevalence of extended staff absences due to back and neck problems and enquired about workstation assessments.
A department in the company employing a significant number of people was selected for ergonomic assessment and audit. This audit revealed that workstation and VDU assessments had been performed and that most workstations were 'ergonomically sound'. However, the majority of employees were unaware of the importance of correct use of the equipment, good posture, and personal responsibility issues - all factors that directly impacted on the types of problems they were suffering.
In consultation with the personnel manager a two-pronged approach was adopted. All employees in the department attended a training course at which they were taught office ergonomics and postural awareness, whist any employee with back or neck problems was encouraged to self-refer to CHL for physiotherapy.
A six-month review has indicated that the incidence of back and neck problems experienced by employees in the department has more than halved. In addition, quick access to physiotherapy has seen a substantial reduction in the average number of days taken off per absence spell. The scheme has been so successful and cost-effective that it is now being extended throughout the whole company.
The personnel manager highlighted the following factors that she believed had contributed to the success of the exercise: