Employers Risk Getting it in the Neck Over Desk Compensation Claims -
March 08

Covered in: Business Bulletin (Aberdeen and Grampian Chamber of Commerce), May; Press and Journal, 21st April

Sloppy attention to office working conditions could cost employers thousand of pounds in compensation, an office interior design agency has warned.

Aberdeen and Dundee design experts, asplanned, issued the warning as Fife Council was ordered to pay Brenda Downie £10,000 damages after she injured her neck while stretching to use a computer.

Social worker Mrs Downie developed a pain in her neck so severe that she was off work for more than six months and had to undergo physiotherapy.

The Court of Session heard how desk-based Mrs Downie developed problems because she did not have her own computer and had to turn, stretch and twist to reach a nearby terminal.

The 40-year-old claimed Fife Council had breached legal guidelines requiring workstations to be suitably set up and Lord Carloway awarded £9720 damages against the local authority, which admitted liability.

Andy Stewart, asplanned managing director, said: “Companies and local authorities who fail to take seriously the office working conditions of their staff will end up paying dearly in the long run.

“This is a perfect example of why employers should seek professional advice when it comes to office planning and when they are moving or refurbishing offices.

“A failure to put proper measures in place and to consult with office design specialists will lead to more of these types of compensation claims and will damage their reputation as a responsible employer.”

BBC News

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