The correlation between workplace ergonomics and musculoskeletal complains in Iranian technical and vocational training organization; a semi-quantitative study to provide preventive educational strategies.

BACKGROUND

A semi-quantitative evaluation of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) among office workers and their impact on job tasks has not been performed in Iran. We aimed to evaluate the appropriateness of office ergonomics, the frequency of WRMSDs, and their association.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

214 staff members from an organization (134 men and 80 women) were randomly selected to complete a questionnaire, incorporating baseline characteristics and the Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort questionnaire (CMDQ). Workplace ergonomic conditions were assessed using Rapid Office Strain Assessment (ROSA).

RESULTS

Low back pain had the highest frequency (21.9%), followed by the knee (21.0%) and the neck (19.1%) before employment, shifting to the lower back (64.9%), neck (63.1%), and knee (58.9%) after employment. Severe pain was observed in the neck and back (16.8%) with neck (15.9%) and lower back (11.2%) impacting occupational activities. The mean total ROSA exceeded the average (2.34 ± 0.37). ROSA score was correlated with pain in the upper extremities (R = 0.845, R2 = 0.71, P = 0.001), neck and back (R = 0.845, R2 = 0.70, P = 0.001), and lower extremities (R = 0.850, R2 = 0.72, P = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The results of the present study highlighted the anatomical sites rarely addressed in prior research. The heightened occurrence of WRMSDs, compared to pre-employment status, emphasizes the substantial role of occupational conditions mainly ergonomic factors in their development. Given that WRMSDs can disrupt occupational activities, managers and policymakers need to prioritize workplace ergonomics.