Comparative survey of work related musculoskeletal disorders [WRMDs] prevalence and related factors in Iranian welders

ABSTRACT

To determine the prevalence and risk factors for work related musculoskeletal disorders among welders. All 160 welders who work at a petrochemical complex in south of Iran were included in this study. The Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire [NMQ] was used to study prevalence of work related musculoskeletal disorders [WMSDs]. Most welders [88.3%] suffered from some kind of MSDs symptoms. Arc welders had significantly more musculoskeletal problems in the neck and wrists/hands regions than gas welders. Analysis showed that duration of employment as a welder was significantly associated with a work related musculoskeletal disorder of the shoulder [OR 3.2, 95% CM .1 to 8.9], lower back, neck [OR 3.1, 95% Cl 1.1 to 8.4], and knee [OR 3.5, 95% Cl 1.3 to 9.2]. WMSDs had occurred with a high rate among Iranian welders. This study supports the need for vigilant ergonomic intervention at welding