• 01616 966 229
  • Request a callback
Stephensons Solicitors LLP Banner Image

Services
People
News and Events
Other
Blogs

Repetitive strain injury not limited to desk workers

  • Posted
Repetitive strain injury (RSI) is a relatively well known term and is traditionally linked to those who use a keyboard and computer mouse in their day jobs, or those who work on production lines.
 
RSI is also referred to as an upper limb disorder (ULD). According to the Health & Safety Executive (HSE), a 1995 survey estimated that half a million people in Great Britain were suffering from a ULD that year and that on average each sufferer was absent from work for 13 days. ULDs cover problems with forearms, shoulders, elbows, wrists, hands, fingers and the neck. RSI specifically refers to strain injuries whereas other ULDs are not necessarily linked to strain and may have no sign of injury.
 
RSI is not, however, limited to desk or line workers. Any work that involves repetitive or forceful action can lead to problems such as aches and pains, weakness, numbness, stiffness or tenderness.
 
First class payout for Virgin Atlantic beauty therapists suffering RSI
 
Two beauty therapists who worked in the Virgin Atlantic first class lounge at Heathrow Airport were recently awarded compensation totalling £300,000 after developing pain and weakness in their hands and arms due to their work.
 
The two ladies administered Shiatsu massages to passengers awaiting flights. The massages called for heavy hand and finger pressure, which put particular strain on their thumbs. They and colleagues complained when they first started experiencing symptoms and an attempt was made to contain their working hours. However, as flight times dictated the workflow, the relief was short lived.
 
Jayne Evans was awarded £240,972 in damages; she told the court her condition was so bad she could not remove a Sunday roast from the oven. Her colleague, Michelle Hindmarch, was awarded £69,458.
 
Repetitive strain injury claims
 
Repetitive strain injuries can be very debilitating and sometimes call for an operation, or ongoing treatment. Employers have a strict duty to prevent such problems arising in the work place and must take steps to ensure workers do not suffer in their jobs.
 
If you are suffering from a repetitive strain injury, or an upper limb disorder, caused by the failure of your employer to take action to prevent such problems, you may be entitled to compensation like the two Virgin Atlantic beauty therapists.
 
At Stephensons, we have specialist injury claims lawyers with specific experience in pursuing RSI claims. Give us a call today and talk to us in confidence; any compensation you are entitled to could be used to ease your physical symptoms through appropriate treatment. Call 01616 966 229 for tailored advice.
 
By personal injury solicitor, Kate Sweeney
 

Comments