Prevalence and related factors of musculoskeletal discomfort among road sweepers in Bangkok

Abstract

Introduction: Road sweepers have ergonomic risk factors such as repetitive motion and prolonged duration that increasethe risk of musculoskeletal discomfort (MSD). The aim of this study was to find out the prevalence andrelated factors of MSD in road sweepers in Bangkok.

Method: The study design was a cross-sectional descriptive study. 273 road sweepers in Bangkok were includedin this study. The subjects were asked to complete questionnaires concerning personal factors, occupationalfactors and MSD. Brooms and basket bins were weighed and broom handle length was measured.Handgrip strength test was done in every road sweeper. The symptoms survey was modified from Nordicmusculoskeletal questionnaire.

Result: Regarding overall MSD (symptoms in at least one body part) in road sweepers, the 7 day and 12-monthprevalence were 79.12 and 85.71% respectively. Sickness absence due to overall MSD was 11.72%.Shoulders were the most prevalent sites of MSD in road sweepers. Knees were the second prevalence.Statistically significant factors related to overall MSD in road sweepers were housework and work durationof 21-40 years.

Discussion and Conclusion: The MSD was high prevalence in road sweepers in Bangkok. It is necessary for road sweepers to carry out the prevention program of MSD.

Key words: Prevalence, Musculoskeletal discomfort, Road sweepers