A Research on Home Workers' Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders in Pandemic Period

ABSTRACT

Working life has been transformed and its dynamics experienced a new break with the Covid-19 outbreak which made working home model as a new normal. Coronavirus caused significant changes in all aspects of life, which an important one was compelling people staying and working home. Hence, increasing sedentary lifestyle and spending more time on internet and television affected musculoskeletal health negatively. The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of working home arrangements on work related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD) during Covid-19 pandemic. Research was conducted with a group of 424 participants who experienced working home style in pandemic period in Turkey. A questionnaire containing demographic questionnaire and Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ) was sent to participants. The findings of this study showed that the working home arrangements during pandemic period worsened the musculoskeletal health of the participants. It is predicted that this deterioration will continue to increase with the continuation of working from home. Consequently, in order to decrease this negative situation, organizations and individuals should take the necessary precautions, regulations and training.