Neck and shoulder pain among operation and maintenance workers of selected power supply enterprises / 环境与职业医学

Background Power grid is a basic industry of national economy. The occupational health problems among operation and maintenance workers in this industry have become increasingly prominent in recent years, and they should receive enough attention. Objective To estimate the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) of neck and shoulder among operation and maintenance workers of power supply enterprises, and analyze related influencing factors. Methods From March to June 2021, a total of 1433 operation and maintenance worker from 10 power supply enterprises in three provinces of North China were selected as research subjects using cluster sampling method. A revised Musculoskeletal Disorders Questionnaire was used to investigate the prevalence and ergonomic factors of neck and shoulder pain in the past year. χ2 test and logistic regression model were used to explore influencing factors of neck and shoulder pain among operation and maintenance workers. Results A total of 1343 valid questionnaires were recovered and the effective recovery rate was 93.72%. The neck pain prevalence was 66.0% (886 cases) and the shoulder pain prevalence was 54.1% (727 cases). The multiple logistic regression analysis results showed that often/very often long-time sitting (OR=1.864, 95%CI: 1.236-2.811; OR=1.659, 95%CI: 1.091-2.524), sometimes holding awkward postures (OR=1.695, 95%CI: 1.294-2.219; OR=1.596, 95%CI: 1.218-2.092), often/very often holding awkward postures (OR=2.416, 95%CI: 1.618-3.607; OR=2.058, 95%CI: 1.405-3.015), long-time slight neck tilting forward (OR=1.327, 95%CI: 1.023-1.722; OR=1.571, 95%CI: 1.221-2.022), long-time elbows bending (OR=1.327, 95%CI: 1.023-1.722; OR=1.506, 95%CI: 1.112-2.040) and department or team staff shortages (OR=1.578, 95%CI: 1.153-2.161; OR=1.831, 95%CI: 1.320-2.539) were associated with higher neck and shoulder pain prevalence rates. While exercise (OR=0.630, 95%CI: 0.492-0.809; OR=0.707, 95%CI: 0.557-0.899) was associated with lower neck and shoulder pain prevalence rates. Doing same work every day (OR=1.704, 95%CI: 1.305-2.225) was associated with a higher neck pain prevalence rate. Awkward postures with ineffectual force (OR=1.808, 95%CI: 1.226-2.665) and often keeping arms above shoulders (OR=1.424, 95%CI: 1.017-1.992) were associated with a higher shoulder pain prevalence rate. Conclusion The prevalence rates of neck and shoulder pian are high among operation and maintenance workers of power supply enterprises in selected three provinces of North China, and the main associated factors include individual factors, awkward work postures, and labor organization.

A cross-sectional study of musculoskeletal disorder and their environmental determinants among cycle rickshaw pullers of Delhi: A geographical information system-based analysis

Introduction: Rickshaw pulling is among the major activities in the informal sector. Cycle rickshaw pulling involves the task of prolonged sitting, fixed posture, and vibrations which could increase the risk of developing many health problems including one of the major problems of musculoskeletal disorder (MSD). Rickshaw pulling remains important for urban transport system, and such activities contribute in terms of employment and transportation services. The injury and illness resulting from work leads to lower productivity and quality employment which force them to increase their daily hours of working. The work environment and various other environmental determinants for MSD were assessed. The spatial variability of these environmental determinants and MSDs of cycle rickshaw pullers was studied in Delhi. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among cycle rickshaw pullers of Delhi. Five districts were randomly selected, and out of 448 study subjects, a total of 425 were included in the study. Consent was obtained before the study. The Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire instrument for MSDs was used. The spatial distribution of MSD and risk factors was studied using QGIS software. Results: MSD was observed in 51.5% of the cycle rickshaw pullers and the prevalence increased with age from 9.6% to 34.7%. A statistically significant association of MSD with duration of work, sleeping hour, and sleeping place was observed. Poor road condition and posture were also having an association with MSD. Conclusion: Every second cycle rickshaw puller was having MSD. Lifestyle, road conditions, harsh environmental condition, strenuous physical exertion, and ergonomics of the cycle rickshaw were important factors contributing for MSD.

Desórdenes musculoesqueléticos, estrés y calidad de vida en docentes de un centro del Servicio Nacional de Aprendizaje / Musculoskeletal disorders, stress, and life quality in professors of Servicio Nacional de Aprendizaje

Objetivo. Esta investigación se propuso establecer la relación entre los desórdenes musculoesqueléticos, el estrés y la calidad de vida de los docentes de un centro del Servicio Nacional de Aprendizaje. Materiales y Método. El estudio fue cuantitativo, no experimental, descriptivo. La muestra estuvo constituida por 55 docentes, seleccionados de forma probabilística aleatoria simple. Los instrumentos utilizados fueron el cuestionario nórdico de des-órdenes musculoesqueléticos, el cuestionario de estrés del Ministerio de la Salud y de la Protección Social y el test de calidad de vida WhoQol Bref ­ versión en español, autorizado por la Organización Mundial de la Salud. El análisis de datos se realizó en el software SPSS versión 23, a partir de estadísticos descriptivos (mediana y rango intercuartílico) y correlativos (r Pearson y Rho Spearman), teniendo en cuenta la distribución normal, la cual se calculó a partir de la prueba Kolmogorov Smirnov. Resultados. Se encontró relación positiva y asociación estadísticamente signifi-cativa entre los desórdenes musculoesqueléticos y los síntomas de estrés y el estrés general (p<0,5 y p<0,01). También se encontró correlación negativa y asociación estadística entre los desórdenes musculoesqueléticos y la mayoría de dominios de la calidad de vida y resultados similares al relacionar el estrés con la calidad de vida (p<0,5 y p<0,01). Conclusión. Se encontró que, a mayor presencia de desórdenes musculoesquelé-ticos y estrés, menor es la calidad de vida en los docentes participantes del estudio

Objective. This research aimed to stablish the relationship between musculoskeletal disorders, stress, and quality of life of professors at a Servicio Nacional de Apren-dizaje campus. Materials and methods. The study was quantitative, non-experimental, de-scriptive. The sample was constituted by 55 professors, selected by a simple random sample. The instruments used were the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, the stress questionnaire of Colombia ́s Ministry of Health and Social Protection, and the Quality of Life Test, WhoQol Bref - Spanish version, authorized by the Word Health Organization. The data analysis was in SPSS-23, based on descriptive sta-tistics (median and interquartile range) and correlative statistics (r Pearson and Rho Spearman), considering the normal distribution, which is calculated according to the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. Results. Positive relationship and a statistically significant association were found between musculoskeletal disorders and stress symptoms and general stress (p<0,5 and p<0,01). Negative correlation and statistical association were also found between musculoskeletal disorders and most domains of quality of life, as well as similar re-sults when stress was related to quality of life (p <0.5 and p <0.01).Conclusion. It was found that the greater the presence of musculoskeletal disorders and stress, the lower the quality of life in the teachers participating in the study

Distúrbios osteomusculares e dor em profissionais de enfermagem que atuam em centro de material e esterilização / Musculoskeletal disorders and pain in nursing professionals working in a material and sterilization center

Introdução: O estudo teve como objeto os Distúrbios Osteomusculares (DOM) e dor em profissionais de enfermagem que atuavam em Centro de Material e Esterilização (CME). Objetivo geral: Analisar as implicações do trabalho do CME na ocorrência de distúrbios osteomusculares e dor nos profissionais de enfermagem que atuavam neste setor. Objetivos específicos: Identificar a presença de distúrbios osteomusculares em profissionais de enfermagem que atuavam em CME; Identificar a presença, localização e intensidade da dor em profissionais de enfermagem que atuavam em CME; Analisar a associação das características sociodemográficas, laborais e de saúde com a presença de distúrbios osteomusculares; Analisar a presença de dor com distúrbios osteomusculares nos profissionais de enfermagem que atuavam em CME; e Discutir os distúrbios osteomusculares no profissional de enfermagem na perspectiva dos DORT no trabalho em CME. Metodologia: Tratou-se de um estudo transversal, do tipo descritivo exploratório, com abordagem quantitativa. Os locais de estudo foram os Centros de Material e Esterilização de um Centro de Alta complexidade em Oncologia (CACON) da cidade do Rio de Janeiro. A população do estudo foi composta por 36 profissionais de enfermagem. Foi aplicado um questionário para obtenção do perfil sociodemográfico, laboral, de hábitos de vida, saúde e ambiente de trabalho e o diagrama de áreas dolorosas de Corlett e Manenica (1980). Foi realizada análise estatística com auxílio dos softwares Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) versão 21.0, Programa R versão 2.7.1, Microsoft Excel ® e o nível de significância utilizado foi de 5%. Resultados: observou-se predomínio do sexo feminino (87,5%), da raça não branca (54,2%), que vivia sem companheiro (62,5%), com nível de escolaridade do ensino médio (41,7%), com filhos (70,8%). A prevalência de DOM foi em 66,7% dos participantes. Quando associada às características do trabalho com os distúrbios osteomusculares, observou-se que 91,7% dos profissionais eram auxiliares/técnicos de enfermagem, que trabalhavam no turno diurno (70,8%), plantonistas de 12 horas (62,5%), utilizavam transporte público até o trabalho (77,3%), gastavam em média 69,6 minutos para chegarem ao trabalho e com tempo de atuação no CME entre 1 e 5 anos (62,5%). Destacou-se que 79,2% dos participantes relataram que ficavam "sempre" na posição de pé para realizar as atividades no CME. Os que pegavam peso representaram 54,2% dos participantes, os que consideraram o trabalho "repetitivo" foram 87,5% dos participantes e os que referiram que o trabalho realizado era "cansativo" representaram 95,8% dos participantes. Os participantes que disseram que "não consideravam o ambiente de trabalho com condições ergonômicas adequadas para a realização das atividades" representaram 91,7%. Com relação à queixa dolorosa, 75,0% referiram como "presente" na avaliação inicial e, na avaliação final, foram 95,8%. Quanto à intensidade, 50,0% relataram dor leve na avaliação inicial e 35,3%, de dor aguda/muito aguda na avaliação final. Quanto à localização da dor, a região da coluna lombar correspondeu a 50% dos participantes que referiram dor nesta região na avaliação inicial. Na avaliação final, houve presença de dor nas regiões da coluna, juntamente com região da perna/pé, e corresponderam igualmente a 83,3% dos participantes, seguida pela região do pescoço, com 70,8%. Conclusão: Concluiu-se que existia forte relação entre o trabalho realizado no CME, acometimento por DOM e presença de dor em várias regiões do corpo, sendo necessário um olhar voltado à prevenção de exposição ocupacional de ordem osteomuscular. Ações educativas e a ginástica laboral podem ser adotadas, assim como ações de controle gerenciais para minimizar a sobrecarga física causada pelo retrabalho e, assim, prevenir o acometimento por DORT a longo prazo, pela especificidade do trabalho realizado neste setor.

Introduction: The study had as its object the Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) in nursing professionals who worked in the Central Sterile Supply Departments (CSSD) and as a research question, whether there is an association between sociodemographic, occupational, health, and lifestyle variables and the presence of MSDs in professionals working in CSSD? Objectives: To analyze the implications of CSSD work on the occurrence of MSDs and pain in nursing professionals working in CSSD; and the specific objectives: Identify the presence of MSDs in nursing professionals working in CSSD; Identify the presence, location and intensity of pain in nursing professionals working in CSSD; To analyze the association of sociodemographic, work and health characteristics with the presence of MSDs. To analyze the the presence of pain with MSDs, in nursing professionals working in CSSD; Discuss MSDs in nursing professionals from the perspective of Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) at work in CSSD. Methodology: This was a cross-sectional, descriptive exploratory study with a quantitative approach. The study site was the Central Sterile Supply Departments of a High Complexity Oncology Center (HCOC), in the city of Rio de Janeiro. The study population consisted of 36 nursing professionals. A questionnaire was applied to obtain the sociodemographic, work, lifestyle, health and work environment profiles and the diagram of painful areas by corlett and manenica (1980). Statistical analysis was performed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21.0, Program R version 2.7.1, Microsoft Excel ® and the significance level used was 5%. Results: there was a predominance of females (87.5%), non-white (54.2%), living without a partner (62.5%), with high school education level (41.7%), with children (70.8%). The prevalence of MSDs was 66.7% of the participants. When the characteristics of work were associated MSDs, it was observed that 91.7% of the professionals were nursing assistants/technicians, working the day shift (70.8%), 12-hour on-duty (62.5%), used public transport to work (77.3%), spent an average of 69.6 minutes to get to work and had worked at the CSSD between 1 and 5 years (62.5%). It was highlighted that 79.2% of the participants reported that they were "always" in the standing position to carry out activities at the CSSD; Those who picked up weight represented 54.2% of the participants, those who considered the work "repetitive" were 87.5% of the participants and those who reported that the work performed was "tiring" represented 95.8% of the participants; Participants who said that "they did not consider the work environment to be ergonomically suitable for carrying out activities" accounted for 91.7%. Regarding the pain complaint, 75.0% would refer as "present" in the initial assessment and in the final assessment, 95.8%. As for intensity, 50.0% reported mild pain in the initial assessment and 35.3% acute/very acute pain in the final assessment. As for the location of pain, the lumbar spine region corresponded to 50% of the participants who reported pain in this region in the initial assessment. In the final evaluation, there was the presence of pain in the regions of the lumbar spine again, together with the leg/foot region and they corresponded equally to 83.3% of the participants, followed by the neck region with 70.8%. Conclusion: It was concluded that there is a strong relationship between the work carried out at the CSSD, involvement by MSDs and the presence of pain in various regions of the body, requiring a look towards the prevention of occupational exposure of a musculoskeletal order. Educational actions and labor gymnastics can be adopted, as well as management control actions to minimize the physical overload caused by rework and thus prevent the onset of MSDs in the long term, due to the specificity of the work carried out in this sector.

Autocuidado en profesional de enfermería con relación al uso del calzado. Hospital de Clínicas, San Lorenzo- Paraguay 2017 / Self-care in nursing professional with regard to the use of the footwear. Hospital de Clínicas, San Lorenzo-Paraguay 2007

El objetivo fue analizar si el profesional de enfermería aplicaba el autocuidado en el uso del calzado en horario laboral. Es un estudio observacional, analítico, de corte trasversal con enfoque cuantitativo. La población estuvo constituida por 1.037 profesionales de Enfermería del Hospital de Clínicas, institución de carácter público, situada en la ciudad de San Lorenzo, Paraguay. Se incluyeron 366 profesionales de Enfermería a través de un muestreo probabilístico, la selección de la muestra fue multietápica con muestreo aleatorio simple. Se aplicó estadística descriptiva y chi2 para determinar asociaciones. Los hallazgos más relevantes fueron que mayoritariamente eran del grupo etario de 24 a 48 años con una media de 35 años; soltero, con una antigüedad de 10 años, con más de un empleo y del servicio de urgencias. Solo el 11,7% refirió conocer el calzado anatómico, sin embargo, 50,2% lo utilizaba. Más del 60% no tenía en cuenta las características del calzado anatómico al momento de adquirirlo, entre otros aspectos relacionados al utilizarlo en horario laboral. En el grupo etario de 31 a 35 años se concentró la mayor cantidad de trastornos músculo-esqueléticos (40%). En conclusión, el profesional de enfermería utilizaba de forma deficitaria el calzado adecuado; además, se ha encontrado evidencia de asociación (chi2 0,05) entre el tipo de calzado utilizado y la cantidad de trastornos músculo-esqueléticos que presentaba cada individuo

The objective was to analyze if the nursing professional applied self-care in the use of footwear during working hours. It was an observational, analytical, cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach. The population was constituted by 1,037 nursing professionals from the Hospital de Clínicas, a public institution, located in the city of San Lorenzo, Paraguay. The sample included 366 nursing professionals and the sampling wasprobabilistic while the selection of the multistage sample with simple random sampling. Descriptive statistics and Chi2 were applied to determine associations. The most relevant findings were that they were mainly in the age group of 24 to 48 years with an average of 35 years, single, with a career of 10 years, more than one job and from the emergency service. Only 11.7% referred to know the anatomical footwear, however, 50.2% used it. More than 60% did not take into account characteristics of the anatomical footwear at the time of purchase, among other aspects related to using it during working hours. The greatest number (40%) of musculoskeletal disorders were concentrated in the age group from 31 to 35 years. In conclusion, the nursing professional uses the right footwear in a loss-making way. In addition, evidence was found of an association between the type of footwear used and the number of musculoskeletal disorders that each individual presents

Prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among IT professionals in India-a literature review

Musculoskeletal disorders are typically characterised by discomfort (often persistent) and restrictions in mobility, dexterity and functional ability, reducing people’s capability to work and participate in social roles with associated influences on psychological welfare, and at a wider level influence on the prosperity of communities Information technology- has played a vital role in transforming India from a slow administrative economy into a land of innovational entrepreneurs. The aim of this review is to, critically analyze the literature and report on the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders in information technology professionals. The review focused on computers users and software professionals. An extensive literature search was undertaken using google scholar and PubMed databases for last 10 years from 2011 to 2020. Further Following a thorough search of the databases, a total of 25 articles were evaluated. A number of articles reported a high prevalence of MSD, generally various studies have been done on information technology professionals and related to the work of IT professionals and studies on various risk factors also have been done in different states of India. 17 articles had selected for the study purpose in which prevalence study had selected for the review. The prevalence among the IT professionals is not uniform; however, Software engineers and computer operators appear to be more prone to neck, shoulder and back pain.

Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorder Symptoms and Relationship with Work Posture among Staff of a Nigerian University

Background: Improper work postures have been associated with many detrimental health outcomes including musculoskeletal disorders. Emerging evidence however suggests that some of these health concerns may be lessened by reducing sedentary behaviour at work. Musculoskeletal disorders have been ranked top among the most prevalent health problems relating directly to working conditions. Aim:This study was thus aimed at determining the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorder symptoms and their relationship with work posture among staff of the University of Port Harcourt in Rivers State, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A descriptive, cross sectional design was used in conducting this study among academic and non-academic staff of the University of Port Harcourt. 256 study participants were involved in this study. They were selected using the multistage sampling technique. A self-administered semi-structured questionnaire was the study instrument. Collected data was transferred to the Microsoft Excel (2016) software for cleaning and coding. The Statistical Package for Social Science was used for analysis of the data. Descriptive and inferential statistics were computed and statistical significance was set at <0.05. Results:Majority 172 (54.3%) of the respondents had experienced musculoskeletal pain that involved the head, neck, back and other regions of their bodies. Also, a statistically significant association was found to exist between work posture and the occurrence of pelvic and perineal pain. Dynamic postures while working was found to offer a protective effect against the occurrence of thoracic and abdominal pain (O.R. = 0.88). Conclusion and Recommendations:Work-related musculoskeletal disorder symptoms were found to be prevalent in this study. The relationship between work postures and the identified symptoms among the staff was also established. It was recommended that health information on alternation between sitting and standing working postures be passed on to staff working in the study area as well as a redesigning of the work-stations of the staff to adopt ergonomic standards necessary for preventing the occurrence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders

Awareness among Post-Graduate Students about Ergonomic Practice in Vidarbha Region

In recent times ergonomics has become a popular term. The term has been used with most professions but increasingly in the dental profession. Dentistry is a profession in which all the dentists worldwide are commonly affected with health hazards like musculoskeletal disorders which hinders their clinical practice resulting in early retirements. So, to evaluate workplace efficiency and prevalence of musculoskeletal problems in practicing local dentists this study was planned. We wanted to assess the awareness about proper ergonomic practice among the post-graduate dental students in Vidarbha region.METHODSThe study was undertaken at Sharad Pawar Dental College between 2018-2019. Study comprised of 50 post-graduate students. Each student was asked to fill self-administered questionnaire regarding ergonomics. The questionnaire consisted of a total of 10 questions. Results were assessed accordingly.RESULTSOut of all the participating post-graduate students, 84% have knowledge of the term ergonomics and its applications in dental practice. 52% of them responded positively to taking micro breaks while performing a procedure. 88% of them are aware of the posture related musculoskeletal disorders. 84% of them responded positively about experiencing symptoms during working. 68% of them responded positively about knowing some exercises to strengthen their back, shoulders or hands. 36% of the participants are practicing four handed dentistry.CONCLUSIONSAwareness about dental ergonomics can enable the post-graduate students and other dental practitioners to have a better work-life, and provide their patients with the quality of service they need.

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders and associated factors among bank workers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND@#Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are dramatically increased in the world due to the advancement of technology and competitiveness of markets. There were limited studies carried out regarding WMSDs among bank workers in Africa particularly in Ethiopia. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the magnitude of work-related musculoskeletal disorders and associated factors among bank workers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.@*METHODS@#Institution-based cross-sectional study design was employed in the study. Multi-stage sampling techniques were used to select 838 bank workers from 62 banks in Addis Ababa. Self-administered standard Nordic questionnaires were used as well. Multivariable binary logistic regression analyses were employed to identify factors associated with WMSDs. Moreover adjusted odds ratio (AOR), 95% confidence interval (CI) and p value < 0.05 was used to show the strength of association between explanatory variables and dependent variable.@*RESULTS@#Out of 838 total numbers of participants, 755 bank workers returned their questionnaires responding with a rate of 90%. Of these, 77.6% (N = 586) suffered WMSDs with a 95% CI [75-81%]. Based on the final multivariate logistic regression analysis being female [AOR = 2.98, 95% CI 1.91-4.65], sitting back in a twisted position [AOR = 3.59, 95% CI 2.13-6.08], sitting back bent [AOR = 4.06, 95% CI 2.48-6.66], work on fixed position [AOR = 1.78, 95% CI 1.17-2.71], no work time break [AOR = 3.33, 95% CI 1.44-7.71], type of chairs [AOR = 2.62, 95% CI 1.19-5.75] and job stress [AOR = 2.33, 95% CI 1.19-4.54] were factors significantly associated with WMSDs.@*CONCLUSION@#From the study's findings, the magnitude of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among bank workers was high. Being female, awkward posture, no work time break, fixed position, type of chairs, and job stress are the factors significantly associated with WMSDs. So bank workers should use proper types of chairs, practice proper work posture, increase healthy working conditions, and create awareness programs on how to maintain beneficial health conditions which may lead to increased leisure time.

Design And Development Of Ergonomic Table And Analyze Using RULA Analysis

@#Ergonomics and design have made the greatest relation in producing an artifact or creating a workplace. A computer table is widely used in classrooms in universities. However, the problems of the current computer table have been detected through the results of RULA analysis. In this project, a survey of the questionnaire was done and the anthropometric data have also been collected. The dimensions of the current computer table are then collected and the deficiencies of the current computer table have been focused on RULA analysis. A new structural design of the computer table has been designed, in order to meet the requirements of ergonomics. A product of the new design of ergonomics computer table is made and has been focused on RULA analysis to define the improvement between both tables. The paper showed a comparison between the current computer table and the new ergonomics computer table were analyzed. The improvement of the new ergonomics computer table was identified and reduced the injuries and disorders. A further investigation on better working posture when using a computer table is required, while further improvement for the product design of a new ergonomics computer table is needed, as well as the application of the ergonomics design aspect in our life.

Analysis on working posture and risk evaluation on musculoskeletal disorders among workers in greenhouse vegetable plantation / 中国职业医学

OBJECTIVE: To identify the poor working posture on musculoskeletal disorders of workers in greenhouse vegetable plantation(hereinafter referred to as “vegetable workers”) in different planting stages, and to evaluate the risk grade of working posture. METHODS: A total of 28 vegetable workers in a greenhouse vegetable planting base in Shandong Province were taken as research subjects using convenient sampling method. Video data were collected from field observation. Working posture analysis system was used to code the working posture of vegetable workers. The composition of working posture was analyzed, and the risk grade of working posture was evaluated. RESULTS: In the planting and seedling period, the main poor working postures of workers were lumbar back leaning forward, legs squatting, lumbar back bending, and legs bending, and the composition ratios were 60.4%, 42.9%, 38.6% and 38.4% respectively. In the management period, the main poor working postures were neck forward, waist back bending, hands higher than elbows, and the composition ratios were 52.0%, 34.2% and 30.0% respectively. In the harvest period, the main poor working postures were neck leaning forward, one hand above elbow, lumbar back bending, walking and lumbar back leaning, and the composition ratios were 50.4%, 42.6%, 39.6%, 39.1% and 35.4% respectively. In the period of planting and seedling, management and harvest, there were 81.6%, 23.4% and 52.9% of the work position in the risk grade Ⅲ; there was 1.4% of the work position in the risk grade Ⅳ in the harvest period. CONCLUSION: Working postures with obvious hazards existed at different planting periods. Effective intervention measures should be taken to prevent the problems of poor working posture in greenhouse workers.

Prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders and related factors in female greenhouse workers in Shandong province / 中华流行病学杂志

Objective To study the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and related factors in female greenhouse workers.Method A questionnaire survey was conducted among 851 female greenhouse workers in Shandong province in 2015.Results The incidence of MSDs among the female greenhouse workers was 82.79％.For the MSDs in female greenhouse workers,the top four affected body sites were low back (65.82％),knees (49.10％),neck (25.75％) and shoulder (23.47％).Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that age ≥50 years (OR=2.098,95％CI:1.353-3.252),working years ≥20 (OR=1.703,95％CI:1.116-2.599),repetitive work (OR=1.903,95％CI:1.183-3.061),standing for prolonged time (OR=2.902,95％CI:1.183-7.120) and frequent slightly bending down (OR=2.979,95％ CI:1.823-4.867) were the main risk factors for MSDs in female greenhouse workers.Aiding tools was the protective factor (OR=0.400,95％ CI:0.229-0.697).Conclusions The findings showed a relatively higher prevalence of MSDs in female greenhouse workers.It is necessary to take appropriate measures to prevent and control the incidence of MSDs in female greenhouse workers.

Comparison of work-related musculoskeletal symptoms between male cameramen and male office workers

BACKGROUND: Previous studies have classified cameramen’s job as physiologically heavy work and identified the risk factors of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMDs) in cameramen. However, those studies limited their research subjects to cameramen. In this study, we compared the frequency and severity of WRMDs between cameramen and office workers. METHODS: A total of 293 subjects working in four broadcasting companies in Korea were recruited. A questionnaire survey was conducted for a month, starting in October 2016. The subjects were divided into cameramen and office workers according to their occupation. We compared the frequency and severity of WRMDs and ergonomic risk assessment results between the two groups. RESULTS: The high-risk WRMD group had a higher proportion of cameramen than office workers. Moreover, the high ergonomic risk group also had a higher proportion of cameramen than office workers for WRMDs in the upper extremities and waist+lower extremities. In the multivariable-adjusted model comparing cameramen and office workers, the odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (95% CI) for high-risk WRMDs was 3.50 (95% CI: 1.92–7.72) for the upper extremities and 3.18 (95% CI: 1.62–6.21) for the waist and the lower extremities. The ORs by body parts were 3.11 (95% CI: 1.28–7.57) for the neck, 3.90 (95% CI: 1.79–8.47) for the shoulders, and 4.23 (95% CI: 1.04–17.18) for the legs and feet. CONCLUSIONS: Our study suggests that cameramen are at high risk of WRMDs. Workplace improvements and management of the neck, shoulders, and lower extremities, which are susceptible to WRMDs, are necessary to prevent musculoskeletal disorders among cameramen.

A Cross-sectional Study of Musculoskeletal Symptoms and Risk Factors in Cambodian Fruit Farm Workers in Eastern Region, Thailand

BACKGROUND: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders are accumulative disorders that are most frequently found in agricultural farmers. The purpose of this study was to investigate factors that affect symptoms resulting from work-related musculoskeletal disorders among Cambodian farm workers working in fruit plantations in the eastern region of Thailand. METHODS: The Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, Rapid Upper Limb Assessment, and Hazard Zone Jobs Checklist techniques were used to interview 861 farmers who participated in the study. RESULTS: The data showed that men who had been working for >10 years were more at risk of neck pain than those working for 10 years experienced lower back pain with aOR 8.13, 95% CI (1.04, 63.74), compared with those who had been working for <1 year. Men whose tasks required raising the arms above shoulder height had a risk factor contributing to neck pain of aOR 1.68, 95% CI (1.08, 2.61) when compared with those who did not work with this posture, and women had aOR 1.82, 95% CI (1.07, 3.12) when compared with those who did not work with this posture. CONCLUSION: Based on the results of this study, it is recommended that work-related health conditions are monitored in migrant plantation workers to reduce the risks of musculoskeletal disorders.

Work Sectors with High Risk for Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders in Korean Men and Women

BACKGROUND: To identify work sectors with high risk for work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in Korean men and women. METHODS: We analyzed nationwide data to identify ergonomic risk factors in Korean employees. In particular, we analyzed data on exposure to five ergonomic risk factors (painful/tiring postures, lifting/moving heavy materials, standing/walking, repetitive hand/arm movements, and hand/arm vibration) according to employment sector, sex, and age, using the 2014 Fourth Korean Working Conditions Survey. We also used workers' compensation data on work-related MSDs in 2010, which is available by sex. RESULTS: The different work sectors had different gender distributions. “Manufacturing” (27.7%) and “construction” (11.3%) were dominated by males, whereas “human health and social work activities” (12.4%), “hotel and restaurants” (11.7%), and “education” (10.4%) were dominated by females. However, “wholesale and retail trade” and “public administration and defense” employed large numbers of males and females. Furthermore, the work sectors with a greater proportion of work-related MSDs and with multiple ergonomic risk factors were different for men and women. For men, “construction” and “manufacturing” had the highest risk for work-related MSDs; for women, “hotel and restaurants” had the highest risk for work-related MSDs. CONCLUSION: Ergonomic interventions for workers should consider gender and should focus on work sectors with high risk for MSDs, with multiple ergonomic risk factors, and with the largest number of workers.

Investigation on the influencing factors of low back pain in automobile factory workers / 中国职业医学

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the prevalence and influencing factors of low back pain in workers in automobile manufacturing plants. METHODS: A judgment sampling method was used to select 394 workers with working length ≥1 year in an automobile manufacturing plant as study subjects. A questionnaire survey was conducted to investigate the prevalence of low back pain in these workers using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Disorders Questionnaire. RESULTS: The prevalence of low back pain in these study subjects was 28. 9%( 114/394). The multivariate logistic regression analysis results showed that the relative risk ranked from high to low is as follow: uncomfortable working posture [Odds ratio( OR) =7. 31,95% confidence interval( 95% CI) = 2. 92-18. 28],feeling tired after work( OR = 5. 34,95% CI = 1. 22-23. 32],the commu time more than 30 minutes( OR = 2. 76,95% CI = 1. 38-5. 52),insufficient operating space( OR = 2. 22,95% CI = 1. 28-3. 83),hand or arm frequently used at work( OR = 2. 08,95% CI = 1. 14-3. 78) and age( OR = 2. 00,95% CI = 1. 19-3. 35),that were all risk factors of low back pain( P < 0. 05). CONCLUSION: The frequent use of hand or arm at work,insufficient operating space,uncomfortable working posture,feeling tired after work,and long commute time are the main influencing factors affecting the low back pain of automobile manufacturing workers.

Prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders and related factors in female greenhouse workers in Shandong province / 中华流行病学杂志

Objective To study the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and related factors in female greenhouse workers.Method A questionnaire survey was conducted among 851 female greenhouse workers in Shandong province in 2015.Results The incidence of MSDs among the female greenhouse workers was 82.79％.For the MSDs in female greenhouse workers,the top four affected body sites were low back (65.82％),knees (49.10％),neck (25.75％) and shoulder (23.47％).Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that age ≥50 years (OR=2.098,95％CI:1.353-3.252),working years ≥20 (OR=1.703,95％CI:1.116-2.599),repetitive work (OR=1.903,95％CI:1.183-3.061),standing for prolonged time (OR=2.902,95％CI:1.183-7.120) and frequent slightly bending down (OR=2.979,95％ CI:1.823-4.867) were the main risk factors for MSDs in female greenhouse workers.Aiding tools was the protective factor (OR=0.400,95％ CI:0.229-0.697).Conclusions The findings showed a relatively higher prevalence of MSDs in female greenhouse workers.It is necessary to take appropriate measures to prevent and control the incidence of MSDs in female greenhouse workers.

Assessment of risk factors for work-related musculoskeletal disorders of the neck in dental hygienists using video recording / 대한구강보건학회지

OBJECTIVES: Work-related musculoskeletal disorder (WMSD) of the neck is a frequent health problem in dental hygienists. This study was conducted to assess the risk factors of neck musculoskeletal disorder (neck MSD) using video recording. METHODS: The subjects were 50 currently working dental hygienists who agreed to participate in this study. A standardized questionnaire about WMSD (NIOSH/KOSHA) was distributed and video recording for neck posture and motion was performed between August and October 2012. The video recording was performed for 5 minutes using the reflective marker attachment on the 7th cervical vertebra. Major observation points included neck flexion angle, number of flexions, and length of static work when performing scaling and prosthetic procedures. Data were analyzed using MedCalc (ver 12.3.0, Mariakerke, Belgium), and the risk factors for neck MSD were assessed using simple and multiple variate analysis. RESULTS: The mean age and work experience of the subjects were 27.9 years and 5 years respectively. The prevalence of neck MSD symptoms that met NIOSH/KOSHA's criteria was 48%. The mean angle of neck flexion was 54.6°, mean maximum angle of flexion was 64.8°, and the mean time of static posture was 4.8 minutes during the 5 minutes recording interval. In the multiple logistic regression analysis adjusted by career, daily work time, and posture, the prevalence of neck MSD symptoms increased by 1.47 times (95% CI=0.24–9.48) with flexion >45°, and by 4.90 times (95% CI=0.91–26.4) when a static posture was preserved for >4.8 minutes CONCLUSIONS: The measured angle of flexion and time of preserved static posture identified further serious than expected. Therefore, to reduce the risk of neck MSD, reasonable and practically applicable guidelines to correct neck bending and tilting, especially to relax the long static posture associated with flexion, should be prepared.

Correlation between thumb length on handgrip strength, hand dexterity and musculoskeletal problem among dental professional / Correlação entre comprimento do polegar sobre a força de preensão manual, destreza manual e problemas musculoesqueléticos entre profissionais da odontologia

Objective: The key factor for potency of the teeth is their muscular strength. The dominant hand plays an important role in most of the daily muscular activities involving dental procedure. There are many factors, which may affect the grip strength, and very few studies especially in India have shown their correlation with grip strength. Work related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSD) are an important occupational health problem affecting dental practitioners. This study assessed the prevalence of WRMSD in dental interns in relation to the thumb length and hand grip strength. Material and Methods: Thumb length template, jammer dynamometer, nine-hole peg board, and RULA assessment. Methods: Thumb length was measured by thumb length template. Grip strength was measured by jammer dynamometer, unilateral hand finger dexterity was measured by ninehole pegboard, and work related musculoskeletal disorder was assessed by RULA. Results: Thumb length was positively correlated with grip strength and work related musculoskeletal disorder. Thumb length was negatively correlated with unilateral hand finger dexterity among dental professionals. Conclusion: Thumb length is a better predictor for measuring hand grip strength and work related musculoskeletal disorder, than unilateral hand finger dexterity.

Objetivo: O fator chave para a potência do dentes é a força muscular dos mesmos. A mão dominante tem um papel importante nas atividades musculares diárias envolvendo procedimentos odontológicos. Há vários fatores que influenciam a força de preensão e poucos estudos, especialmente na Índia, mostra as correlações com a força de preensão. Desordens musculoesqueléticas relacionadas a trabalho (DMRT) são um importante problema ocupacional de saúde entre profissionais da Odontologia. Este trabalho verificou a prevalência de DMRTs em residentes de Odontologia e sua relação com o comprimento do polegar e a força de preensão manual. Material e Métodos: Materiais utilizados foram o gabarito de comprimento do polegar, um dinamômetro Jamar, um tabuleiro de 9 perfurações e o instrumento RULA. Métodos: O comprimento polegar foi medido pelo gabarito; a força de preensão foi medida no dinamômetro Jamer; a destreza manual unilateral foi verificada utilizando-se o tabuleiro perfurado e as desordens musculoesqueléticas associadas ao trabalhos foram determinadas pelo instrumento RULA. Resultados: O comprimento polegar apresentou correlação positiva com a força de preensão e com a presença de desordens musculoesqueléticas relacionadas ao trabalho. O comprimento polegar foi negativamente correlacionado com a destreza manual unilateral entre os profissionais da Odontologia. Conclusão: O comprimento polegar é melhor preditor para a força de preensão manual e presença de desordens musculoesqueléticas relacionas ao trabalho, do que a destreza manual unilateral.

An Investigation of Health and Safety Measures in a Hydroelectric Power Plant

BACKGROUND: Occupational risk management is known as a catalyst in generating superior returns for all stakeholders on a sustainable basis. A number of companies in Ghana implemented health and safety measures adopted from international companies to ensure the safety of their employees. However, there exist great threats to employees' safety in these companies. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the level of compliance of Occupational Health and Safety management systems and standards set by international and local legislation in power producing companies in Ghana. METHODS: The methodology is conducted by administering questionnaires and in-depth interviews as measuring instruments. A random sampling technique was applied to 60 respondents; only 50 respondents returned their responses. The questionnaire was developed from a literature review and contained questions and items relevant to the initial research problem. A factor analysis was also carried out to investigate the influence of some variables on safety in general. RESULTS: Results showed that the significant factors that influence the safety of employees at the hydroelectric power plant stations are: lack of training and supervision, non-observance of safe work procedures, lack of management commitment, and lack of periodical check on machine operations. The study pointed out the safety loopholes and therefore helped improve the health and safety measures of employees in the selected company by providing effective recommendations. CONCLUSION: The implementation of the proposed recommendations in this paper, would lead to the prevention of work-related injuries and illnesses of employees as well as property damage and incidents in hydroelectric power plants. The recommendations may equally be considered as benchmark for the Safety and Health Management System with international standards.