Airline Baggage Handlers are at Risk of Musculoskeletal Disorders
Union Unite has come up with the ‘Lighten up’ campaign to raise awareness about the ill effects of heavy baggage on airline employees. Baggage handlers are required to move and transport passenger’s baggage lift on an average the weight of an elephant during a typical workday. With about 9 tonnes of weight being carried by them in a day, there is no wonder they are five times more at risk than other professionals to musculoskeletal problems.
The union is appealing for a universally applicable maximum baggage weight of 23 kgs as opposed to the current 32 kgs. This limit has so far been implemented by Thompsons, the charter company. Some other groups have also shown willingness to join the campaign, but some airlines have insisted that an industry wide standard regulation be put in force first.
However, the union’s call has been supported by HSE and IATA. There are no regulations in place yet, but the union is appealing for this to happen soon. Speaking on behalf of Unite, Steve Turner, national officer, pointed out that people normally think that all baggage handling is done by machines. However, a significant amount of the carrying, hoisting etc is actually carried out manually.
A recent HSE report studying trends in the past three months showed that about 73% of baggage handlers reported lower back problems while more than half reported knee problems. Another 43% reported shoulder strain. These massive percentages of afflicted workers show clearly the need for urgent and effective steps to be taken in this regard.
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