THE FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH MSDs AMONG CONSTRUCTION WORKERS

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Ergonomics
• Public Health

Background:

• Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) pose a significant risk in physically demanding occupations.
• Identifying risk factors for MSDs is crucial for developing effective prevention strategies and ergonomic interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the factors contributing to the development of MSDs among construction workers.
• To identify specific physical and psychosocial risk factors associated with upper limb, neck, and upper back MSDs.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire to assess MSD symptoms across nine body regions.
• Assessed physical fitness through self-perception and psychosocial demands via job control, support, and dissatisfaction.
• Employed multiple logistic regression analysis to determine significant risk factors.

Main Results:

• Distal upper limb MSDs were associated with manual handling, work repetitiveness, psychosocial demands, job dissatisfaction, and gender.
• Neck, shoulder, and upper back MSDs were linked to manual handling, work repetitiveness, psychosocial demands, job dissatisfaction, and poor physical fitness.
• Psychosocial factors and physical demands significantly contributed to MSD prevalence.

Conclusions:

• Reducing MSDs in construction requires interventions targeting manual handling, repetitive tasks, and psychosocial stressors.
• Optimizing the physical work environment, including equipment and tools, is essential for mitigating MSD risks.
• Addressing both physical and psychosocial aspects of work is necessary for comprehensive MSD prevention.