R.S.I. - Repetitive Strain Injuries

With the huge rise in the number of computers used by firms nationwide it was inevitable that the number of RSI (repetitive strain injury) compensation claims would rise with it. The largest contributor to the repetitive strain section of work compensation claims is poor research into counter-measures by employers. As an employee it is your right to work in a safe environment and it is the duty of your employers to provide that safety. If an employer requires you to spend eight hours a day sat at a desk working on a computer then it is their responsibility to ensure that all possible measures are taken to avoid repetitive strain injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome. Of course, this does mean that if they have taken all available steps to protect you and you still develop repetative strains then your chances of receiving compensation are quite low. An employer must do all "reasonably possible" to protect you, that is all. There has to be fault somewhere along the line, you do not automatically get compensation if you develop injuries at work.

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A common example of repetitive strain disorder in relation to computers is that of pain in the wrist due to repeatedly typing on a keyboard or the continued use of a mouse. Some even find that this spreads up to the shoulder and back. This syndrome can be avoided through the use of ergonomic chairs, keyboards, mice etc. all of which are readily available in most office stores in the United Kingdom. But unfortunately most of us have computers in our home as well so placing the blame squarly on the shoulders of your employment is not as easy as you might think. But, it is in an employer's interests to provide stress-saving items to vulnerable staff as the liability for the resulting repetitive stress on the muscles and joints will be on them and their insurance policies. You can find many strain-saving devices on the web (tip: common misspellings are repetative and repetetive so try them if you are not having much luck with the correct spelling). Injuries involving repetition in the workplace often result in the individual being unable to work for some time after the strain and stress first sets in which is where the loss of earnings and future loss of earnings part of the RSI compensation claim has to be taken into consideration.

RSI Compensation Claims

Proving that your injuries should be classed as RSI is normally very difficult unless the actual work practices and resulting injury are already well documented. In the end, it will normally come down to the testimony of expert medical witnesses who will state whether they believe that the job you perform could have caused your ailment. In these circumstances it is generally advisable to speak to a legal professional such as an injury lawyer or solicitor who is experienced in these types of claims. Some R.S.I. cases are resolved quite quickly if there are a number of previous cases to draw assumptions from, also the amount of case history can help prove steps that the employer should have taken to avoid your injury in the first place.*

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*Disclaimer: Although this site is updated as often as possible the information provided may not accurately reflect the current laws, procedures and/or facilities available to you. To ensure that you get the most up to date information make sure you consult an actual injury solicitor before pursuing any action. The articles on this site are for informational purposes only and are not intended to advise any particular action or inaction. Please read our terms of use for more information.