Prevalence of MSDs and Postural Risk Assessment in Floor Mopping Activity Through Subjective and Objective Measures

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Ergonomics
• Musculoskeletal Disorders

Background:

• Daily cleaning tasks are essential for sanitation but pose health risks to professional cleaners.
• Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are a growing global concern for workers in cleaning professions.
• This study focuses on the specific risks associated with floor mopping tasks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence and risk factors of musculoskeletal disorders in professional floor mopping cleaners.
• To identify specific body parts most affected by repetitive mopping motions.
• To analyze the relationship between work experience and reported pain.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 132 professional cleaners.
• Utilized a modified Nordic questionnaire to assess pain and MSD symptoms.
• Employed electromyography (EMG) and motion capture to evaluate muscle strain and posture in 15 participants during mopping.

Main Results:

• High risk of MSDs reported in the right hand, lower back, wrists, and right shoulder.
• Work experience showed a negative association with MSDs in several upper and lower limb areas (p < 0.01).
• EMG revealed elevated muscle activity in the upper trapezius and biceps brachii (dominant hand), and flexor carpi radialis and biceps brachii (non-dominant hand).

Conclusions:

• Floor mopping presents significant ergonomic risks leading to musculoskeletal injuries.
• Targeted ergonomic interventions are recommended to reduce the incidence of MSDs in this workforce.
• Addressing muscle strain and postural risks is key to improving cleaner health and safety.