Experts will share the latest thinking, technology and best practices for identifying, managing and eradicating causes of MSDs in the sector, during an event to be staged by the IOSH Food and Drink Group next month.
Industry statistics continue to identify MSDs as a major cause of prosecutions and major injuries to workers in the UK food industry. MSDs are also a significant cause of emotional stress and can reduce the quality of life for those affected.
Group Chair John Boyle said: "Since 2010 our annual Health and Safety Benchmarking Survey has given us a window into the wellbeing of the UK food and drink sector.
"While our latest sample survey reported an overall decrease in total lost time accidents and the overall over-three-day accident frequency rate in 2013/14, it also revealed a significant number of instances, back injuries and work-related upper limb disorders.
"Through this event we will explore the complexities of MSDs, how businesses can successfully manage MSDs in the workplace. The event will also discuss different approaches to effectively return an employee to work following injury or ill health."
Among experts due to speak at the event are Matt Birtles, senior ergonomist at HSL; Jayne Ward, specialist occupational health physiotherapist at Designed2Move Ltd; Katharine Metters, lead consultant at Posturite; and John Pelling, Managing Director at Back-Track Europe Ltd.
Gary Love, SHE manager at Greencore Park Royal, will also highlight how a new conveyor systems at the factory has helped to protect its dispatch line staff from suffering MSDs.
The work by Greencore Park Royal was named winner at the National Food and Drink Health and Safety Awards last year, organised by the IOSH Food and Drink Group.
Both IOSH members and non-members are welcome at the upcoming event, called MSDs -- a holistic approach, putting the 'h' back into health and safety, which will be held at Jurys Inn East Midlands Airport, Castle Donington, Derbyshire, on Wednesday 9 March.
Places can be booked online at www.iosh.co.uk/events, by emailing [email protected], or by calling the IOSH Bookings team on +44 (0)116 257 3197. Bookings are due to close on Wednesday 2 March.