The individual

Employers need to ensure that workers are not at risk through lack of training or because of individual factors. They can help protect their employees from developing RSI by:

• Providing information and training about RSI and how to recognise the symptoms.
• Providing information and training about how to avoid RSI through safe working techniques and safe working postures.
• Advising employees of the importance of taking breaks before the onset of fatigue and of varying their work routines.
• Informing employees of the importance of reporting symptoms of RSI straightaway.
• Providing information on how to report symptoms of RSI and a suitable system for reporting.
• Ensuring that workstations and equipment can be fully adjusted to accommodate people of different sizes, heights or particular needs.
• Ensuring that workstations and equipment can be adjusted to the needs of people with disabilities.
• Ensuring that women do not have to use equipment and tools designed for men.
• Ensuring that new employees or those returning from a long break are allowed to build up their work rate gradually.
• Ensuring that the wearing of personal protective equipment or clothing e.g. gloves does not increase the risk of RSI.