"MORE COOPERATION NEEDED TO TACKLE WORK-RELATED HEALTH PROBLEMS" - LYNNE

5.59.29pm BST (GMT +0100) Tue 5th Jun 2007

West Midlands MEP Liz Lynne today welcomed the launch of the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work's campaign to tackle musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).

Across the European Union, musculoskeletal disorders are the most frequently-occurring work-related health problem and most commonly include backache and muscular pain. Stress, high-paced physically demanding work and low job satisfaction can all be major contributing factors.

Commenting today from Brussels, Liz, who is Vice-President of the Employment and Social Affairs Committee, said:

"Musculoskeletal disorders are the biggest cause of work absence in almost all European countries so I wholeheartedly support this campaign which will raise awareness and help to combat the underlying issues."

"Quite apart from the obvious financial cost, musculoskeletal disorders do immeasurable damage to so many people's health, damaging their employability, quality of life and in the longer-term, their standard of living."

"Only if government, employers and employees work together can enduring solutions be found through adhering to health and safety regulations and learning from others' experiences."

ENDS

Notes to editors:

The Lighten the Load campaign concludes with the European Week for Health and Safety at Work, 22nd-26th October 2007, which comprises a range of activities and events across the EU.

Good Practice will be rewarded at an awards ceremony in March 2008 to reward innovation and excellence in tackling musculoskeletal disorders.

Campaign website: http://ew2007.osha.europa.eu/