A database administrator has been awarded £35,000 compensation after he suffered a work-related pain disorder.

The 50-year-old had been with the same employer since 1997. In 2006, he received a promotion which meant he was given more responsibilities. This led to him working an excessive number of hours. On a typical week he would work 30 hours over his normal time.

He had a history of neck pain and had needed a new work station in 2001. Although he was given a new desk and chair, his workstation wasn’t formally evaluated.

He was six months into his new role when his doctor diagnosed him as suffering with depression and prescribed antidepressants. He told his employer but was soon given even more responsibilities.

He started to find it difficult to write or even hold a pen as he was in so much pain from cramp in his right hand and arm.

He also suffered from depression, anxiety, insomnia, headaches and chest pains. It caused him to take time off and eventually he didn’t return to work.

He brought an action against his employer. He claimed the company had been negligent in failing to carry out proper assessment of the risk posed by his workload and work pressure, failing to carry out adequate health surveillance and requiring him to work excessive hours both within the office and at home.

The employer disputed the liability claim but agreed to an out-of-court settlement of £35,000 to cover his loss of earnings, and his pain, suffering and loss of amenity.

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