With 47% of logistics and transport professionals reporting musculoskeletal disorders, Logistics UK is emphasising the importance of creating a safe working environment – starting from the ground up.
Workers who spend long periods on their feet can be more susceptible to health problems including foot and lower back pain, knee problems and muscle fatigue, according to a study of 1,000 non-office workers.
HSE research also shows that slips, trips and falls are the leading cause of non-fatal workplace injuries, accounting for 30% of reported incidents, highlighting the importance of providing safe, even flooring across logistics and transport workplaces.
Workplace injuries and work-related ill health can have a significant impact on workers’ lives, often resulting in time away from work to recover, Logistics Uk is warning.
They can also carry substantial costs for employers. HSE statistics show that workplace injury and work-related ill health cost around £1.4bn in the transportation and storage sectors in 2023/24 alone.
Tim Hyde, Logistics UK head of retail operations, said: “Standing for extended periods forces muscles to work continuously to maintain posture, and over time this constant effort and limited movement can lead to muscle soreness and fatigue.
“Much like those who sit for long periods, workers who spend a lot of time on their feet can be vulnerable to fatigue, back pain and stiffness.
“These issues can have a significant impact on employees’ wellbeing, as well as their concentration and productivity at work.”
He added: “Logistics professionals often work in busy environments, handling heavy equipment and operating under pressure, all of which can increase the risk of injury.
“It is essential that businesses reduce these risks by ensuring the environments in which their employees operate are safe and maintained to a high standard.”
Logistics UK advises that, alongside appropriate workplace safety measures, such as installing safety matting to create safer working and walking areas, employees can also take simple steps to reduce the physical strain associated with spending long periods on their feet. These include:
- Incorporating plenty of movement into the working day.
- Taking regular breaks.
- Trying gentle exercises at workstations, such as heel raises or squats.
- Staying active outside work through walking, going to the gym or other activities that help strengthen muscles.
