The Ergonomic Risk Assessment Among Solid Waste Collectors in Local Administrative Organizations in Nakhon Ratchasima
Naruedee Poonkasem1, Jindawan Wibuloutai1, Pornpimol Kongtip2
1Faculty of Public Health, Mahasarakham University, Mahasarakham, Thailand.
Studies in Health Technology and Informatics
|July 3, 2026
Summary
Solid waste collectors face high ergonomic risks and musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Interventions are recommended to reduce physical strain and prevent injuries in this occupational group.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Ergonomics
- Public Health
Background:
- Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are prevalent among manual laborers.
- Solid waste collection involves physically demanding tasks with potential ergonomic hazards.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess ergonomic risks and MSDs in solid waste collectors.
- To identify specific tasks and postures contributing to these risks.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study involving 42 solid waste collectors.
- Utilized Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA), Nordic Body Discomfort Questionnaire, and electromyography (EMG).
Main Results:
- 59.5% of workers had high ergonomic risk; 33.4% had very high risk.
- 76.1% reported moderate to severe lower back discomfort; back muscle fatigue found in 54.3%.
- Bending, dragging, and lifting tasks were associated with elevated ergonomic risks.
Conclusions:
- Repetitive manual handling and awkward postures contribute to significant MSD risks.
- Inadequate work design exacerbates physical strain.
- Ergonomic interventions are crucial for preventing long-term injuries in waste collectors.
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