Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders and Associated Lost Work Days in Steel Making Industry

Abstract

Background: The study aims at clarifying prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) among steel mak­ing workers and employees as well as associated lost work days.

Methods: A detailed questionnaire based on Nordic ergonomic questionnaire describing work history, ergonomic condi­tions at work, sign and symptoms of musculoskeletal system with in previous12 months was applied to the investigation among1030 male workers and employees in a steel making plant in Isfahan, Iran, 2004.

Results: The prevalence of low back pain ranked top, regardless of job titles followed by knee pain. The age groups (24-35) and (34-45) manifested the most frequent number of (MSDs) and MSDs related lost workdays.

Conclusion: This is almost in harmony with the prevalence of MSDs among general population and statistics presented by Bu­reau of Labor Statistics, the U.S Department of Labor.