ERGONOMICS & HUMAN FACTORS INSIGHTS & EXPERTISE FROM A CHARTERED PROFESSIONAL

Practical workplace Ergonomics & Human Factors advice. Our latest content explores critical workplace challenges including manual handling risk reduction, retail environment optimisation and the human factors considerations in digital transformation. We provide practical insights for creating safer, more efficient workplaces across Northern Ireland's, UK and Ireland’s diverse business landscape.

Focus on Musculoskeletal Disorders

According to the 2025 Workplace Health Statistics & Analysis for Northern Ireland:

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) rose sharply to 18,000 cases in 2023-24, up from 14,000 the previous year (+28.6%)
This represents the highest level since 2019
The impact resulted in 260,000 lost working days across the region
Average of 14.4 days lost per MSD case

MSD prevalence by sector in Northern Ireland 2021-2023 showing manufacturing, retail, construction and transportation statistics

Nearly half (44.6%) of all work-related MSDs occur in just four sectors: wholesale and retail trade, manufacturing, construction, and transportation and storage. The concentration of MSDs in these industries reflects the prevalence of manual handling, repetitive movements and sustained awkward postures in these work environments.