Press Release: Europe’s back hurts

According to a European Agency report, work-related low back disorders will affect between 60% and 90% of people during their working life. Up to 42% of workers may be suffering at any one time. Although more than 60% of workers recover within 6 weeks, the consequences are a significant loss in working time and a reoccurrence rate of between 20% and 44%. Workers in all types of jobs and employment sectors are affected including construction and agricultural workers, nursing staff and cleaners. The social and economic impact on Europe of such a prevalent work-related illness is considerable.The Report 'Work-Related Low Back Disorders' covers both low back pain and low back injuries which are a significant and increasing problem in Europe. The report identifies key findings on the prevalence, origins, work-related risk factors and effective prevention strategies for low back disorders.

EU-OSHA: Facts: No.10, 2000: Work-related low back disorders http://osha.europa.eu/en/publications/factsheets/10/view

EU OSHA: Work-related low back disorders (EC, 2000) http://osha.europa.eu/en/publications/reports/204/view

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