Managing musculoskeletal health in the rail industry

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are injuries or conditions that affect the musculoskeletal system—bones, joints and ligaments, muscles, or tendons. MSDs are characterised by symptoms such as pain and discomfort, stiffness, or loss of mobility. A one-off, traumatic event or underlying condition can cause MSDs, but they can also occur without any warning.

According to the Health and Safety Executive, work-related MSDs account for nearly 7 million lost working days each year. It is crucial to understand how rail organisations can prevent and manage MSDs to enable employees to maintain healthy and productive careers.