Out-of-office work 'is health risk'

Workers are putting their mental and physical health at risk by continuing to work after they leave the office, a new report has warned.

A study by the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP) showed that people are doing more than two extra hours' work every day while commuting and after arriving home.

The so-called "screen slaving" is blamed on work pressures, although some people said working at home in the evening helps to ease their stress levels.

A study of more than 2,000 office workers found most spent over six hours in front of a computer screen during the day, before turning on their smartphones or other devices on their way home.

The CSP warned that overworking can lead to health problems, while poor posture when using smartphones causes back and neck pain.

Employers are urged to encourage staff to take regular breaks and to take part in activities during the day.

CSP chairman Dr Helena Johnson said: "The results of this survey are a huge concern to physiotherapists, who see the consequences of poor posture and bad working practices each day.

"While doing a bit of extra work at home may seem like a good short-term fix, if it becomes a regular part of your evening routine then it can lead to problems such as back and neck problems, as well as stress-related illness. This is especially the case if you're using handheld devices and not thinking about your posture.

"Talk with your employer if you are feeling under pressure."

Hundreds of physiotherapists are visiting offices across the country to encourage workers to be more physically active.