[Prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders and posture analysis using RULA method in Shiraz general dentists in 2010]

The prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms in dentists is high although relatively few studies have been conducted in this profession. This study was undertaken to investigate the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms [MSDs] and to assess the risk of these symptoms among general dentists in Shiraz, Iran. In this descriptive cross-sectional study the Nordic standard questionnaire and questionnaire pertaining to questions about personal and job characteristics were administered to160 general dentists. Furthermore, the pictures of dentists were taken by camera during dental treatment and the most repetitive postures were selected and assessed by Rapid Upper Limb Assessment [RULA] method. The data were analyzed by SPSS version 16.0 software. A large number of dentists [139 subjects] reported MSDs symptoms in at least one region of their musculoskeletal systems during the past 12 months. The most prevalent MSDs symptoms were neck [105 subjects], shoulders [80 subjects], upper back [76 subjects], wrist/hand [63 subjects], and lower back [55 subjects], respectively. A significant difference was observed between men and women only in the wrist/hand [P>0.05]. The results of posture analysis showed that all dentists' postures fell into corrective second and third action levels. The results of this study revealed that the prevalence of MSDs symptoms in dentists was high and MSDs risk levels were intermediate to high. Therefore, it is recommended that in an appropriate training program be contemplated to improve dentists' awareness regarding MSDs symptoms

Prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among iranian steel workers

Musculoskeletal disorders in developing countries are considered as main cause of occupational disorders and disability and highly associated with socioeconomic burden to individual, organization and society in general view. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders and associated risk factors among Iranian steel workers. In a cross-sectional study, 1439 questionnaires were provided from 1984 randomly selected workers of four Iranian steel industries. Data of musculoskeletal disorders was gathered by means of standardized Nordic self-reporting questionnaire. Demographic and work related data were collected into the check list. Out of 1984 individuals, 1439 questionnaires returned and mean age of study workers was 37.23 +/- 8.74 years old. Among workers, 46.3% in the past week and 61% in the last year claimed one of musculoskeletal disorders in their bodies. Lumbar, knee[s] and neck areas had the most common musculoskeletal disorders. Musculoskeletal disorders had significant association with the job time of work and BMI. Musculoskeletal disorders in Iranian steel industries happened in high rate. Ergonomic interventions strategies into the workplaces must be focused to eliminate environmental hazards such as apposition on the time of work and manual handling of heavy loads

[Estimation of aerobic capacity and determination of its associated factors among male workers of industrial sector of Shiraz city, 2010]

In order to physiologically fit the job to the worker's capability, maximum aerobic capacity [VO[2]-max] is used. This study was conducted to estimate VO[2]-max and determine its associated factors among workers of industrial sector of Shiraz city. In this cross-sectional study, 500 healthy male workers employed in Shiraz city industries participated voluntarily. Subjects' aerobic capacity was assessed by ergocycle test according to Astrand protocol for 6 minutes. A questionnaire consisted of two parts covering demographic, anthropometric and physiological characteristics was used as data collecting tool. Mean and standard deviation of age of workers was 32.01 and 7.66 years, respectively. worker's aerobic capacity was estimated to be 2.69 +/- 9.263 1.min [-1]. The results showed that there was association between VO[2]-max and age, weight and BMI while no association was found between VO[2]-max and height. Also, statistical analysis revealed association between VO[2]-max and smoking and exercise per week [p<0.05]. Nature of work, shift working, job satisfaction and fatigue had no association with aerobic capacity. Based on the results, regression equations were developed for estimation of aerobic capacity. Aerobic capacity had association with age, weight, BMI, exercise and smoking

[Sublicnial symptoms of intoxication associated with exposure to low levels of mercury by dentists]

Dentists are occupationally exposed to elemental mercury from placements of mercury-containing amalgam. Although many studies have been conducted on mercury intoxication, there is still widespread concern about possible ill effects of chronic low-level mercury exposure on dentists. The present study examined the effects of occupational exposure to low levels of mercury by a group of dentists. In this historical cohort study, subjects consisted of 106 dentists and 94 general practitioners [referent group], from private and public clinics in Shiraz city. Subjects were requested to complete a questionnaire on demographic variables, symptoms experienced and work practices. Additionally, using standard' methods, atmospheric and urinary concentrations of mercury were measured. The data were analyzed by appropriate statistical tests. In univariate analysis, Chi-Square test was used to compare the prevalence of symptoms among both groups. Independent sample t-test and Mann- Whitney's U-test were used to compare the mean and median of quantitative data of both groups. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to adjust for potential confounders. Both groups were similar as far as most demographic and socioeconomics variables, but age and number of personal amalgam fillings, were concerned. Median of atmospheric concentration of mercury was found to be 3.35 micro g/m[3]. Likewise, the urinary concentration of mercury in dentists was estimated to be 3.22 micro g. creatinine. This value was significantly higher than that of the referent group. Additionally, analysis of the data revealed that subclinical symptoms of intoxication were more prevalent in dentists. Our findings indicate that occupational exposure to mercury by dentists, even at low levels, is associated with a significant increase in the prevalence of subclinical symptoms of intoxication

[Work schedule-related health problems in petrochemical industries workers]

Shift work is programmed in various schedules, each has its own advantages and disadvantages. The main purposes of this study were: a] to determine common shift schedules used in petrochemical industries, b] to compare shift work health-related problems among employees working in different shift schedules and c] to recommend appropriate shift schedule. This cross-sectional study was carried out at 14 petrochemical companies. Study population consisted of 987 shift workers. Data on demographic features, shift schedule and adverse effects of shift work were collected via anonymous questionnaire. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS, version 11.5. Among 987 studied shift employees, 27% worked in 3M-3E-3N-3Res, 61% in 4M-4E-4N-4Res and 12% in 12-hour schedules. Health problems such as gastrointestinal, cardiovascular and musculoskeletal disorders among 4M-4E-4N-4Res schedule shift workers were significantly less prevalent than other schedules [P<0.05]. Furthermore, the results showed that the prevalence rates of health problems among 12-hour schedule shift workers were higher than 3M-3E-3N-3Res schedule workers. Since 12-hour schedule caused higher rates of gastrointestinal, cardiovascular and musculoskeletal disorders among shift workers as compared with 4M-4E-4N-4Res and 3M-3E-3N-3Res schedules, it should be avoided in shift system. Based on the results, 8-hour schedules with clockwise rapid rotation are recommended

[Respiratory symptoms and functional impairments induced by occupational exposure to formaldehyde]

The main purpose of this study was to assess the acute and chronic effects of occupational exposure to low levels of formaldehyde on respiratory health. This historical cohort study was conducted at a local melamine-formaldehyde resin producing plant. The study population consisted of seventy exposed and 24 non-exposed [referent] employees. In this study, a questionnaire was used to evaluate and determined the prevalence of respiratory symptoms. Atmospheric concentrations of formaldehyde were measured at different areas of the plant. Similarly, using a spirometer, the parameters of pulmonary function were measured during exposure and a few days after exposure ceased. Atmospheric concentrations of formaldehyde marginally exceeded current permissible levels. Additionally, significant decrements in some parameters of pulmonary function, both during and after exposure were noted. However, a relative recovery in lung functional capacity observed following temporary cessation of exposure. Furthermore, exposed workers had higher prevalence rates of regular cough, wheezing, phlegm, shortness of breath, chest tightness and episodes of chest illness associated with cold. The findings of this study indicate that exposure to formaldehyde may induce respiratory symptoms, acute partially reversible and chronic irreversible functional impairments of the lungs

[Design and development of an ergonomic chair for Iranian office workers]

Working in sitting posture, specially using a poorly designed chair is one of the critical risk factors in developing low back pain. Low back pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal disorders [MSDs] and has been reported to occur in 50-90% of all adults with recurrent rate of up to 90%. The objective of this study was to design and develop ergonomic chair for Iranian office workers. In this study, chair-related anthropometric dimensions of 303 Iranian office workers were measured in both genders. ANSI-HFES 100/1988 standard protocol was used for chair design. Finally, using a usability test, the designed ergonomic chair was assessed by 60 men and women office workers. Using anthropometries measurements and ergonomic criteria for chair design and also considering technical limitations, an ergonomic chair was made. Then this ergonomic chair was compared with old made chair designs. Office workers' assessments between old chair design and new one showed a significant difference. In this study, design and development of construction of an ergonomic chair was successfully made which could be applicable to Iranian office workers in order to provide their comfort and well being