Work-related musculoskeletal disorders in Singapore average 338 cases annually in the past 4 years

The majority (91%) of such reported disorders were back injuries, with the rest affecting the upper limb.

From 2020 to H1 2024, an average of 338 work-related musculoskeletal disorders were reported per annum, with a majority (91%) of such reported disorders coming from back injuries, with the rest affecting the upper limb.

According to a parliamentary query by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), most disorders arose from acute conditions, such as back injuries which employers are required to report. However, a small number were due to prolonged ergonomic aches and inflammation, which are typically diagnosed and reported by medical practitioners.

“There are many factors that can cause work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Employees can protect themselves by practising ergonomic behaviours, such as maintaining proper work postures and applying correct lifting techniques.

“Employers should support by mitigating risk factors in their work processes such as providing mechanical lifting aids, anti-fatigue mats and refresher training on lifting techniques,” the Ministry added.

MOM also expressed other measures that have been implemented to promote good ergonomic practices according to workplace risks and workers’ health needs, such as:

• Issuing workplace safety guidelines and codes of practice on improving ergonomics in the workplace, which apply to different groups of workers including seniors and persons with disability.
• As part of the Total WSH Programme, employers can sign up for free ergonomics-related training for their employees to better understand and prevent work-related musculoskeletal disorders at the workplace.
• Encouraging employers to adopt technologies to monitor and reduce workers’ exposure to such risks, by publicising these solutions on its website and engaging companies for technology trials.

“These solutions include digital devices that alert workers when they adopt unsafe postures, and exoskeleton suits or vests to provide support and improve the posture of workers carrying heavy loads. Eligible companies can apply for grants, such as the NTUC’s Company Training Committee Grant, to adopt these solutions for a healthier workplace,” MOM stated.

READ MORE: Singapore’s workplace fatal injury rate in 2023 fell below 1 per 100,000 workers for the first time: MOM