Ergonomic Risk Assessment on Exposure to Musculoskeletal Disorders among Warehouse Workers, Samutprakan Province

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the MSDs risk of ergonomics exposure among warehouse workers. A cross-sectional descriptive study by using questionnaires and ergonomic observational techniques was completed by 96 warehouse workers. The data was collected using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (MSQ), ergonomics postural assessment, and the NIOSH lifting equation. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics. The results revealed that most working conditions involved standing all the time 64.60 %. The prevalence of MSDs in the past 7 days and 12 months was 81.20 % and 76.00%, respectively. The three body parts with the highest prevalence rates of MSDs in the past 7 days were shoulder 47.90%, upper back 45.80% and lower back 41.70%. In 12 months the upper back was 42.70%, shoulder 39.60%, and lower back 37.50%. These results demonstrated that MSDS tends to occur in acute and cumulative effects. The results of postural risk assessment showed that most of the postures were at the high risk with 51.04 %, which is the high risk and requiring investigation and implementation for the improvement. A Lifting Index found that greater than acceptable levels were in original and destination points with average 1.27 (SD. = 0.63) and 1.58 (SD. = 0.74), respectively. Warehouse workers face ergonomic risks that sho uld be improved. Working conditions should be designed ergonomically, and protective measures should be considered to promote workers’ health and safety.