Musculoskeletal Symptoms and Associated Factors Among Iron Foundry Workers

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Industrial Hygiene
• Ergonomics

Background:

• Musculoskeletal symptoms (MSS) are a leading cause of work-related health issues, particularly in demanding sectors like heavy industry.
• Iron foundries present unique occupational hazards contributing to the high prevalence of MSS.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms among iron foundry workers.
• To identify sociodemographic, occupational, and psychosocial factors, including job stress, associated with MSS in this population.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 396 iron foundry workers in Eskişehir, Türkiye, was conducted in 2023.
• Data collection utilized a structured questionnaire encompassing sociodemographic details, work characteristics, the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, and the Job Stress Scale.
• Multivariate logistic regression analysis was employed to pinpoint independent predictors of MSS.

Main Results:

• A high prevalence of MSS was observed, with 75.8% of workers reporting symptoms in at least one body part within the past year.
• Over half (55.7%) of the workers experienced pain that interfered with their work.
• Factors significantly associated with increased MSS risk included age (≥30 years), low income, irregular exercise, long working hours (≥55 hours/week), overtime or shift work, mechanically strenuous tasks, heavy physical workload, and high job stress.

Conclusions:

• Musculoskeletal symptoms are highly prevalent in iron foundry workers, influenced by both physical and psychosocial workplace factors.
• Effective prevention requires integrated strategies addressing ergonomics, workload management, and job stress reduction.
• Implementing participatory ergonomics, engineering controls, and supportive administrative policies is crucial for mitigating MSS burden in this occupational group.