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8 June 2005 - HSE Launches Campaign -
'Better Backs'
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A new Health and Safety Executive (HSE) campaign - 'Better
Backs' has been launched which aims to reduce the costs to the UK from
work-related conditions. It has been estimated that 4.9 million days
are lost to employee absenteeism through work-related back conditions each year,
with each affected employee taking an average of 19 days off work, according to
the latest figures from the 2003/4 Labour Force Survey.
The charity BackCare estimates the overall cost of back pain to
the NHS, business and the economy reaches a costly £5 billion per year.
The Better Backs microsite (http://www.hse.gov.uk/betterbacks/)
will offer concise, practical tips on how to avoid back-related injuries in
the workplace to both businesses and employees. A helpline is also
provided: 0845 345 0055.
Lord Hunt, Work and Pensions Minister commented:
"Occupational ill health and injury accounts for 40 million
working days lost with back pain alone accounting for 4.9 million. The effects
on those business and individuals is almost incalculable. Its not only impacting
on business' profits its affecting productivity and stopping employees' enjoying
their social life.
Everyone needs to take responsibility for tackling this issue - and by taking
simple, sensible precautions in work and at home we can collectively work to
reduce the misery of back pain.
The financial impact of back pain is enormous so our message
to everyone is clear - A bad back could cost you more than you think.
There is a misconception that preventative health and safety initiatives are
costly and difficult to implement, but in fact many are extremely cost effective
and will save businesses from losing revenue through staff absenteeism, as well
as increasing productivity."
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