With more computers being used on a regular basis nationwide, it was inevitable that the number of repetitive strain claims would rise with it. Many of these claims could be avoided if the employer had taken certain measures to prevent this from happening. It is the employer’s duty after all, to provide a safe working environment for its employees.
Repetitive strain injuries can be quite complex in their nature and are not easy to claim for. For instance, it will be hard to distinguish between repetitive strain injury caused by work or at home, as it is common for most households to have computers nowadays. Using the computer at home could also have caused the injury.
However, do not let this put you off as your employer should take reasonable steps to avoid you suffering from this type of injury. For instance, it will be in the employer’s best interests to provide stress-saving items to staff members.
What causes repetitive strain injury?
People suffering from repetitive strain injury often experience feelings of stiffness, tingling, and swelling. These symptoms are normally the cause of certain work processes that caused repetitive strain in the upper limbs. It has been claimed that around two thirds of office workers suffer from RSI, however many are not even aware that they can even make a claim.
It is important that the employee takes regular rests from the keyboard as this is a common cause for RSI. The PC monitor should also be adjusted to the correct height for the employee for health reasons. It is not just the keyboard that can cause a strain. Repetitive use of the mouse can also be the cause for RSI. Continuous muscle contraction due to being in a fixed position for too long can cause the symptoms.
As an employee if you have developed RSI as a result of prolonged keyboard and mouse use, it may be possible to make a RSI claim against your employer. The amount of compensation you can claim for will highly depend on the severity of your injury. In order for your case to be analysed the best way possible, it is recommended that you contact a solicitor as soon as possible. The solicitor will give you the appropriate information you need and help you in your claim forward.
Technology is advancing rapidly with laptops and other gadgets getting smaller to make it easier on the move. Seeing people working on their laptop or blackberry on the train or bus is a regular thing. However, this has also increased the risks of them obtaining RSI, particularly if they use these devices all day at work as well. The risks of them obtaining RSI become higher due to the smaller and closer-situated buttons. Commuters often work in uncomfortable positions as well, which makes the effects of RSI particularly more serious.
Ayesha Salim , editor of the UK Lawyers Network, writes articles about compensation claims, Lawyer, Repetetive strain injury claims, find a solicitor, legal, lawyer, law help advice, solicitors litigation
No related posts.
Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.
