Repetitive strain injury, also called work-related upper limb disorder (WRULD), covers aches, pain and damage to the hands, wrists, arms, elbows, shoulders and neck caused by repetitive movements, awkward postures, forceful gripping or long periods without a break.
Which conditions count as RSI?
Carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis and tenosynovitis, de Quervain's tenosynovitis, trigger finger, lateral and medial epicondylitis (tennis and golfer's elbow) and some shoulder conditions. Hand-arm vibration syndrome is a related condition caused by vibrating tools; see HAVS claims.
What kinds of work cause RSI?
Production line and assembly work, packing and picking, checkout and scanning work, food processing, keyboard and mouse use, sewing and machining, and any job involving repeated gripping, twisting or reaching, especially at speed or under targets.
What must my employer do?
Under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, employers must assess the risk of upper limb disorders and take steps to reduce it. HSE guidance expects them to reduce risks at source: redesigning tasks and workstations, providing tools that reduce force and awkward postures, introducing job rotation and rest breaks, controlling the pace of work, training workers and acting early on symptoms. For computer work, the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992 require workstation assessments, breaks or changes of activity, and eye tests on request. Where tasks involve force or carrying, the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 also apply.
How do I prove work caused my RSI?
Medical evidence, usually from an orthopaedic or hand surgeon, links the diagnosis to the work. Evidence of your tasks, hours, targets and the absence of risk assessments or rotation is also important. It helps if colleagues doing similar work developed similar symptoms.
What is the time limit?
Because RSI develops gradually, the three-year limit usually runs from when you knew the condition was significant and linked to your work, often around diagnosis. Do not delay once a doctor connects your symptoms to work.
Can I claim if I still work there?
Yes. Your employer cannot lawfully penalise you for making a claim, and its insurer pays any compensation.
What can I claim?
Compensation for pain and loss of function, assessed under the Judicial College Guidelines, plus lost earnings, treatment costs such as surgery or physiotherapy, and help at home. See compensation amounts and office injury claims.
Sources
Browse every plain-English guide in the work accident guides hub, or read the main guide to how a claim works.
This guide is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Every claim turns on its own facts. For advice about your specific situation, speak to a regulated solicitor.