Office workers using VDU/computer equipment are the classic example of a 'high risk' occupation but RSI is by no means limited to this group of people. Any job or leisure pursuit involving repetitive motions can cause RSI.

The following list gives a few examples of industries and potentially 'at risk' occupations.

    * Manufacturing - Packaging, Assembly, Welders
    * Food processing - Cake Decoraters, Fishmongers, Meat Cutters
    * Clothing - Seamstress, Cloth Cutters
    * Construction - Sanders, Bricklayers, Carpenters
    * Transport - Drivers, Handlers
    * Retailing - Shelf Stackers, Checkout Staff
    * Offices - Computer/VDU Operators, Typists, Filing
    * Health services - Lab Workers, Chiropodists
    * Services - Postal Workers, Cleaners, Hairdressers
    * Entertainment - Dancers, Musicians

Other Risk Factors

Within the above professions most people will have no RSI issues but there are a number of other risk factors that may predispose an individual to developing RSI at work.

Your Employer

Your employer has a duty to keep you safe at work and assess any risks you may be subject to. Check out your Employers Responsibilities and get them involved as soon as possible if you suspect you are developing an RSI type injury

There are many factors that may influence the severity and occurence of RSI, some of which are detailed below. Note that this list is not exhaustive and trying to treat your RSI using this list is not to be recommended. Always see a health professional if you think you have RSI.

Excessive Computer Use

Its hard to define 'excessive' as it varies from person to person but anyone using a computer for more than 3 hours per day could be deemd 'more at risk'

Intensity

Intense users (e.g. data entry) are more at risk than occasional computer users and this can also vary at different times of the year (e.g. end of year reporting)

Poor Posture

This is one of the key factors that seems to influence RSI. If you sit properly and have a comfortable workstation you are much less likely to develop RSI

Stress

It may be obvious but people who suffer high stress levels are more likely to be intense computer users and take fewer breaks

Telephone Use

If you have a phone crunched up under you chin and you are using a computer at the same time you're just asking for trouble. A headset will work wonders in this case. Talk to your employer about this

Eyesite   

Similar to telephone use above, if you can't see the screen you'll tend to lean forward with resulting poor posture. Again , talk to your employer

Genetics

Some people are just naturally predisposed to developing this kind of injury