The Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders and their Related Factors in Workers of A Dairy Factory, Nishabur, Iran

Authors

Abstract

Background: Nowadays, musculoskeletal diseases are among the most prevalent occupational diseases. They are also considered as one of the main reasons for absence from work and probably reduced productivity. Improper conditions at workplace can result in musculoskeletal disorders. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of symptoms of musculoskeletal disorders in workers of a dairy factory. Methods: In this analytical cross-sectional study, 50 workers of a dairy factory in Nishabur, Iran, were evaluated. The standardized Nordic questionnaire was used to assess the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders. The data was analyzed in SPSS 18 . Results: The mean age of the workers was 29.5 years. Their mean duration of employment was 4.3 years. Overall, 76% of the participants had experienced musculoskeletal disorders at one of their extremities. The highest prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in the past 12 months was detected in knees (28%), waist (26%), and feet (24%). Age and years of employment had the strongest correlation with the incidence of musculoskeletal disorders. Conclusion: Working conditions of factory workers should be improved through controlling hazardous ergonomic factors. Risk factors of musculoskeletal disorders can also be reduced by education and using equipments such as forklifts and conveyors.

Keywords