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Musculoskeletal symptoms among truck assembly workers
1Mediscreen, Pennine Acute NHS Trust, HQ, Westhulme Avenue, Oldham OL1 2PN, UK. tok.hussain@pat.nhs.uk
Occupational Medicine (Oxford, England)
|September 21, 2004
Summary
A study found a high prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms among truck assembly workers, particularly affecting the lower back, neck, and shoulders. Symptoms varied by job role, age, and service length.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Ergonomics
- Musculoskeletal Disorders
Background:
- Concerns existed regarding high rates of musculoskeletal symptoms in truck assembly plant workers.
- This study addresses the need to quantify these symptoms within this specific workforce.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms in truck assembly workers.
- To analyze symptom distribution across different occupational subgroups.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 461 truck assembly workers.
- Utilized a modified Nordic questionnaire and the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ12).
- Workers categorized into skilled line workers, bench subassembly workers, and material handlers.
Main Results:
- A 70% response rate was achieved from the 461 participants.
- 79% of respondents reported experiencing musculoskeletal symptoms in the past 12 months.
- Most common symptoms affected the lower back (65%), neck (60%), and shoulders (57%).
- Symptoms correlated with age, tenure, job type, and general health questionnaire scores.
Conclusions:
- High prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms identified in truck assembly workers.
- Symptom patterns differed significantly based on occupational subgroup.
- Recommendations for risk reduction were provided to management; further research on specific hazards is planned.