Repetitive Strain Injury and Why You Might Have a Claim Against Your Employer

Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) is a general term used to describe any injury caused by repetitive movements or poor posture in the workplace.

Repetitive Strain Injury and Why You Might Have a Claim Against Your Employer

RSI encompasses a number of specific injuries and conditions including carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, and bursitis. The injuries affect muscles, tendons, nerves, and other soft tissues from repeated physical movements over time. Common symptoms of RSI include pain, stiffness, swelling, numbness, and tingling in the affected area such as the wrist, elbow, shoulder, neck or back. 

RSI is often associated with jobs that involve prolonged periods of typing, computer use, manufacturing, packing, cleaning, or any tasks involving repetitive motions.

Your Rights in the Workplace

Under UK law, employers have a duty of care to protect the health, safety and welfare of their employees in the workplace. This includes taking steps to prevent employees from developing RSI caused by work tasks. Examples of preventative measures include providing wrist rests for typing, ensuring workstations are ergonomically suitable, implementing job rotations to allow for breaks between repetitive tasks, and providing training on appropriate techniques for repetitive movements.

If you develop RSI symptoms that you believe are caused by your work duties, you have the right to report it to your employer and request adjustments to your tasks or equipment. Your employer should conduct a risk assessment and implement reasonable measures to help resolve the issue. 

When You May Have Grounds for a Claim

If your employer is aware you are experiencing RSI symptoms but does not make reasonable adjustments or take appropriate action, they may be liable for a compensation claim. Grounds for a potential claim include:

  • Your RSI was caused purely by the repetitive nature of your work duties over a prolonged period. 
  • Your employer was aware of your symptoms but did not modify your duties or work environment, nor did they provide training on appropriate techniques.
  • No risk assessments were conducted, and no preventative measures were implemented. 
  • You followed all safety protocols and procedures provided by your employer.
  • Your RSI has negatively impacted your ability to complete day-to-day tasks both in and out of work.

It's recommended to seek medical advice and keep records if you plan to pursue a claim with a law firm like https://www.paduffy-solicitors.com/personal-injury/rsi-claims. A personal injury solicitor can also provide guidance on gathering evidence and calculating potential compensation if your employer has been negligent in their duty of care.

Pursuing Compensation

If informal negotiations with your employer fail to provide a satisfactory resolution, your solicitor can help you file a formal claim against the company. Compensation can cover any loss of earnings if your RSI prevents you from working, as well as the pain and suffering caused by the injury.

By law, UK employers must protect employees from foreseeable risks of harm in the workplace. If your employer's negligence led to you sustaining an RSI, hold them accountable by exercising your right to fair compensation. This not only covers your losses but also motivates positive change in workplace safety.