A law to better protect workers from musculoskeletal disorders came into effect on Saturday, making Belgium the first European country with such specific legislation, the office of the Minister of Economy and Labour Pierre-Yves Dermagne announced.
In Belgium, work-related health problems commonly include mental issues and musculoskeletal disorders (MSD). Employees mainly suffer from back, shoulder, wrist or elbow pain.
The law, which is part of the updated work well-being codex, requires employers to analyse working conditions to pre-emptively handle or minimise the risk of MSDs.
Employers may need to add breaks for strenuous physical work or provide ergonomic cleaning equipment to domestic workers. Implementing shift rotations to avoid monotonous and lengthy work, or purchasing ergonomic office chairs and computer equipment may also be necessary.
The aspect of ergonomics should be considered in the design and creation of new workplaces, as well as in making modifications to existing workplaces. Policies should be designed to prevent MSDs and related health issues, with regular review and updates of these preventive measures.
The new legislation also requires employers to clarify the roles of various stakeholders in prevention policy. Workers and the prevention and protection at work committee must be educated about MSD risks and preventive measures.
