Musculoskeletal disorders

A range of workplace hazards can lead to musculoskeletal disorders in workers. Learn how to manage these risks and provide a safe workplace.

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), commonly known as sprains and strains, are the most common work-related injuries and diseases in NSW. From 2018 to 2023, there were about 44,000 serious workers compensation claims made each year, and more than half of these related to MSDs1.

Prevention is key: Prevent MSDs and promote a healthier workplace by proactively identifying and controlling both physical and psychosocial hazards at work.

Act now: Take a risk management approach and foster a supportive work environment to comply with your legal duties and reduce the occurrence of MSDs.

Learn more about our three-year Musculoskeletal Disorder (MSD) Prevention Plan to 2026 to prevent MSDs in workplaces, including our action areas from 2024 to 2026.

MSDs are preventable. Simple changes can make a difference.

Reference:

  1. State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA) Workers’ Compensation Insurance Data all serious MSD claims averaged over five years (2018-19 – 2022-23). Serious MSD claims are those requiring 1 or more weeks off work.
Back to top