The Ergonomic Risk Assessment Among Solid Waste Collectors in Local Administrative Organizations in Nakhon Ratchasima...

This cross-sectional study assessed ergonomic risks and musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among 42 solid waste collectors from 11 local administrative organizations in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand. Data were collected using Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA), the Nordic Body Discomfort Questionnaire, and electromyography (EMG) to evaluate posture-related risks, discomfort, and muscle fatigue. Results showed that 59.5% of workers had high ergonomic risk, while 33.4% were at very high risk. Moderate to severe lower back discomfort was reported by 76.1% of participants, with the lower back most affected (37.8%), followed by the shoulders (27.0%). EMG analysis confirmed back muscle fatigue in 54.3% of workers. Tasks involving bending, dragging, and lifting were associated with high to very high ergonomic risks. The findings highlight that repetitive manual handling, awkward postures, and inadequate work design contribute to significant MSD risks, and ergonomic interventions are recommended to reduce physical strain and prevent long-term injuries.