The impact of work-related risk factors on the development of neck and upper limb pain among low wage hotel housekeepers in Gondar town, Northwest Ethiopia: institution-based cross-sectional study

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders: prevalence, associated factors, and impact on quality of life among kitchen workers in hospitality industry, Bahir Dar City, Northwest Ethiopia, 2023

Introduction

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are considered major public health problems globally, deteriorating the quality of life of workers in various occupations. Kitchen work is reported as among the occupations most prone to these maladies. Nevertheless, prevalence of WMSDs, contributing factors, and impacts on the quality of life of hospitality industry kitchen workers are insufficiently documented in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the prevalence of WMSDs, their associated factors, and impact on the quality of life of hospitality industry kitchen workers in Bahir Dar city, Ethiopia.

Methods

An institution-based, cross-sectional study was conducted from 17 April to 17 May 2023. A total of 422 participants were included using a simple random sampling technique. WMSDs were evaluated using an interviewer-administered Nordic standardized questionnaire. The short form-36 questionnaire was used to assess quality of life. The data were collected using the Kobo tool box. SPSS version 26 software was used to perform both bivariable and multivariable binary logistic regression analyses. Independent t-tests were used to show the impact of WMSDs on quality of life scales across groups with and without WMSD symptoms.

Result

In this study, the response rate was 98.34% (n = 415). The 1-year prevalence of WMSDs among kitchen workers was 82.7% [95% CI: (79.1, 86.3)]. Age group between 30 and 39 years [AOR: 2.81; 95% CI: (1.46-5.41)], job dissatisfaction [AOR: 2.45; 95% CI: (1.34-4.45)], anxiety [AOR: 2.26; 95% CI: (1.12-4.52)], prolonged standing [AOR: 3.81; 95% CI: (1.58-9.17)], and arm overreaching [AOR: 2.43; 95% CI: (1.34-4.41)] were significantly associated factors with work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Work-related musculoskeletal disorders had a significant impact on all quality of life dimensions, in which the mean SF-36 scores of participants with WMSDs were lower than those of their non-WMSD counterparts.

Conclusion

This study revealed that the prevalence of WMSDs was relatively high. Age between 30 and 39 years, job dissatisfaction, anxiety, prolonged standing, and arm overreaching were identified as significant determinants of WMSDs among kitchen workers in hospitality industries. The presence of one or multiple WMSDs, in turn, is associated with worse quality of life dimensions of individuals.

Prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among hotel housekeepers and cleaners: A systematic review with meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) are among the most frequent and costly occupational health problems with a rising prevalence globally.

OBJECTIVE

This systematic review with meta-analysis was conducted to know and evaluate the prevalence of MSD by anatomic location among hotel housekeepers (HHs) and cleaners.

METHODS

Electronic searches were conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Dialnet Plus, PEDro and Cochrane Database for Systematic Reviews using a search strategy to identify cross-sectional studies reporting on the prevalence of MSD in HHs or cleaners. The risk of bias was assessed with Joanna Briggs Institute tool for systematic reviews. A random-effects model was used in the meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Nineteen studies were included in the systematic review, nine of them in the meta-analysis (n = 2299). The study sample sizes ranged from 24 to 1043 participants. The Standardized Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire was the most common tool used to assess MSD among both HHs and cleaners (9/19 of the included studies). The three most affected anatomic locations were the low back 53.9% (95% CI: 43.3-64.6), shoulders 41.4% (95% CI: 27.1-55.8), and wrists/hands 40.1% (95% CI: 24.5-55.7).

CONCLUSIONS

HHs and cleaners have a high prevalence of MSD. Low back pain is the most prevalent MSD among both HHs and cleaners affecting up to one of two people.

Prevalence and associated factors of poor sleep quality among industrial workers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: findings from a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and associated factors of poor sleep quality among Bole Lemi Industrial Park workers in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia.

DESIGN

An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from July to August 2022. The data were collected using a validated and standardised Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index Questionnaire. The collected data were entered into EpiData V.4.6 and analysed using Stata V.14. A multivariable binary logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify factors associated with poor sleep quality. The association was determined using an adjusted OR (AOR) with a 95% CI at a p value of <0.05.

SETTING

The study was conducted in Bole Lemi Industrial Park in Addis Ababa.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 370 workers participated in this study.

OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome of the study was the prevalence of poor sleep quality.

RESULTS

The total response rate was 87.7%. The majority (260, 70.3%) of the participants were female. The mean (±SD) age of the participants was 30.5 (±10.6) years. The prevalence of poor sleep quality during the last months was found to be 75.4% (n=279) (95% CI: 70.7% to 79.7%). Undiversified dietary intake (AOR: 1.63; 95% CI (1.09 to 2.78)), caffeine consumption more than 250 mg per day (AOR: 2.57; 95% CI (1.12 to 6.05)) and night shift work (AOR: 2.36; 95% CI (1.27 to 4.41)) were risk factors for poor sleep quality among sampled workers.

CONCLUSION

This study detected that poor sleep quality is highly prevalent among garment and textile industry workers, indicating that it is a significant public health issue that requires immediate attention. Therefore, modifications of the work environment involving night shift work and the improvement of workers' personal lifestyles involving dietary diversification and caffeine consumption are needed to minimise the burden of poor sleep quality among workers.

Prevalence and risk factors of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among cashiers in small-scale businesses: a cross-sectional study in Ethiopia

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and factors associated with work-related musculoskeletal disorders among cashiers in small-scale businesses in Northwestern Ethiopia.

DESIGN

A multicentre cross-sectional study was conducted from July to September 2022. The data were collected using a validated and standardised Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. The collected data were entered into EpiData V.4.6 and analysed using Stata V.14. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to ascertain the significance of associations at p<0.05 and the adjusted OR (AOR) with a 95% CI.

SETTING

The study was conducted in small-scale businesses in the North Gondar Zone.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 618 cashiers participated in this study.

OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome of the study is the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders, which was measured using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire.

RESULTS

The response rate was 97.5% (N=618). The majority (373; 60.4%) of the study participants were female. The mean (±SD) age of the participants was 30 (±8.3) years. The prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders during the last 12 months was found to be 75.4% (n=466) (95% CI 71.8%, 78.8%). Marital status (married) (AOR=2.12; 95% CI 1.26, 3.56), lack of physical exercise (AOR=2.07; 95% CI 1.32, 3.23), alcohol consumption (AOR=3.55; 95% CI 2.18, 5.78) and awkward work posture (AOR=2.40; 95% CI 1.43, 4.0) were significant factors associated with work-related musculoskeletal disorders among sampled cashiers.

CONCLUSION

This study concluded that the overall prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders was high among cashiers in small-scale businesses. Being married, a lack of physical exercise, alcohol consumption and awkward work posture were significant factors of work-related musculoskeletal disorders. To reduce work-related musculoskeletal disorders, it is recommended taking part in physical activity, avoiding alcohol consumption and avoiding awkward work posture.

Perceived occupational stress and associated factors among primary school teachers in the second wave of COVID-19 in Ethiopia: a multicenter cross-sectional survey

Background

Occupational stress (OS) is a psychological state that results from people's perceptions of an imbalance between job demands and their abilities to cope with those demands. The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted the teaching and learning process and compounded the stress level among teachers due to fear of transmission of the virus and school closures or the difficulty with adherence to the COVOD-19 prevention protocol. This survey study therefore aimed to investigate the prevalence of occupational stress and its associated factors among primary school teachers during the second wave of COVID-19 in western Ethiopia.

Method

An institution-based cross-sectional survey was employed from April to May 2021. The survey was conducted in Gimbi town among all 672 primary school teachers in western Ethiopia. The standardized Teacher Occupational Stress Scale was used to measure occupational stress in the past 4 months. The data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire. The collected data were entered into EpiData version 4.6 and analyzed using Stata version 14 software. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify factors associated with occupational stress. The statistical significance was considered at a value of p of < 0.05 and a 95% confidence interval (CI) with an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) to evaluate the strength of associations.

Results

The response rate was 96.8% (N = 651). The majority, 389 (59.8%) of the study participants were males. The mean (±SD) age was 35.8 (±9.3) years. The prevalence of occupational stress in the second wave of COVID-19 in the past 4 months was 50.1% (n = 326) [95% CI (46.1, 53.9)]. Job dissatisfaction [AOR: 2.06, 95% CI (1.43-2.97)] and high-risk perception of COVID-19 infection [AOR: 2.20; 95% CI (1.46-3.31)] were significantly associated with occupational stress.

Conclusion

This survey disclosed a high prevalence of occupational stress among primary school teachers during the second wave of COVID-19. Job dissatisfaction and a high-risk perception of COVID-19 infection were significant predictors of the occurrence of occupational stress in school teachers. Enhancing stress management skills and focusing on primary prevention of identified risk factors were advised to curtail the condition.

Prevalence and Associated Factors of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders Symptoms among Construction Workers: A Cross-Sectional Study in South China

Statistics showed that work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are the leading cause of productivity loss in the construction industry. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of WMSDs and associated factors among construction workers. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 380 construction workers in Guangdong Province, China. A demographic, work-related survey and the Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire were used to collect the workers' data. Descriptive statists and logistic regression were used for the data analysis. The results showed that the overall prevalence of WMSDs symptoms among the participants in any body region during the last 12 months was 57.9%. Neck (24.7%), shoulder (22.1%), upper back (13.4%), and lower back (12.6%) showed the highest prevalence of WMSDs. Age, exercise, work experience, work position, and level of fatigue after work were significantly associated with the prevalence of WMSDs symptoms in different body regions. The findings of this study showed that the prevalence of WMSDs symptoms among construction workers in south China is still high and is associated with different body areas compared to previous studies. The prevalence of WMSDs and risk-associated factors vary by country and region. This indicates that further local investigations are needed to propose specific solutions to improve the occupational health of construction workers.

Assessing measurement model of green cleaning components for green buildings

Purpose

This paper aims to assess a measurement model of green cleaning for green buildings in Malaysia. Being one of the contributors to the indoor environmental quality performance, green cleaning has become one of the significant aspects that need to be considered for the well-being and performance of a building, particularly in a green building's operations and maintenance performance. Green buildings without green cleaning practices would hinder the benefits that should be rendered economically, socially and environmentally. However, the absence of clear green cleaning components and requirements in Malaysia has become a motivation to undertake this research.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire survey involving cleaning service providers and green building index (GBI) facilitators was carried out, and the data was then analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling. However, this paper will only be focusing on the measurement model assessment.

Findings

Most of the green cleaning components and requirements are acceptable in the model except integrated pest management (in the cleaning procedure component) and hand soaps (in the product and materials component) due to lower factor loadings. Therefore, these two requirements were removed from the measurement model.

Research limitations/implications

Due to a paucity of professionals in the field of green cleaning, the researchers have selected GBI facilitators and cleaning service providers as respondents for this research. The researchers assumed that GBI facilitators are aware of acceptable products and materials for green buildings; meanwhile, cleaning service providers know what is the best cleaning technique and process that helps in achieving cost and resource efficiency. This research also assumed that the green cleaning components identified can be applied to any type of green building, regardless of the differences in needs in each type of building.

Practical implications

This discovery will give the industry, particularly cleaning service providers and green building management teams, a first look at the green cleaning components and requirements.

Originality/value

This paper fulfills the need to study how green cleaning helps in achieving the benefits rendered by green buildings.

Employment-related musculoskeletal complications experienced by the physical therapists in Bangladesh: a comprehensive cross-sectional case study

Background

Dentists, nurses, and physical therapists have all been associated with an increased risk of work-related diseases. The findings of studies in these different occupations might aid in the development of preventative measures. In Bangladesh, however, no comparable evidence has been recorded among physical therapists. The study’s goal was to find out the prevalence of work-related physical problems at different anatomical locations, as well as the link between these disorders and treatment strategies across Bangladeshi physical therapists.

Methods

A physical and online survey of Bangladeshi physical therapists was done. A total of 300 questionnaires were given out, with work-related discomfort or pain detected in nine locations of the body: (1) neck, (2) shoulder, (3) elbow, (4) wrists, (5) upper back, (6) lumbar, (7) thighs, (8) knee, and (9) ankle.

Results

85.5% of Bangladeshi physical therapists suffer musculoskeletal problems, according to the results of this research. The neck (25.7%), lower back (15.2%), elbow (12.3%), ankle (8.6%), and shoulder (8.6%) were the most often affected locations (7.1%). Upper back (3.0%) and hips (2.2%) ailments had the lowest prevalence.

Conclusion

Work-related musculoskeletal illnesses were common among the Bangladeshi physical therapists, especially in their neck, lower back, elbow, and ankle regions.

The job demand-control-support model and work-related musculoskeletal complaints in daytime and nighttime janitors: The mediating effect of burnout

Janitors' jobs require repetitive work with low control (skill discretion, decision authority) and social support. Previous studies have found this constellation of work conditions leads to high stress levels. This study investigated the relationships among job demand-control-support, burnout, and musculoskeletal symptoms for commercial janitors in Washington State. Structural equation modeling was performed using data from 208 participants with analyses comparing models of daytime and nighttime janitors. Burnout fully mediated the relationship between job demands and musculoskeletal complaints among daytime janitors. Among nighttime janitors, burnout mediated between job demands, job control, and social support, and musculoskeletal complaints. The nighttime janitors' model was more fully supported compared to the daytime model. This study is one of a small number that examine and bring attention to the importance of janitors' burnout. Recommendations to improve the psychosocial work environment toward mitigating burnout and reducing musculoskeletal complaints are provided.

Cleaning in the 21st Century: The musculoskeletal disorders associated with the centuries-old occupation - A literature review

Workers performing cleaning duties experience higher injury rates, especially in the form of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), than other industries. It is essential to understand the inherent risks associated with the nature of this occupation. Based on the Balance Theory (Smith & Carayon-Sainfort, 1989), this review surveys the current literature, especially those published since the previous review paper (Kumar & Kumar, 2008), and identifies which elements contributing to MSD risks were examined: task, technology, organization, environment, individual, and their interactions. Thirty-nine research papers published between 2005 and 2021 are identified and summarized. Among these papers, task and individual elements received the most attention, at 42 and 34 occurrences, respectively. The interaction elements of technology-organization, technology-environment, and organization-environment received less than three mentions. The goal of this literature review is to update the knowledge base and identify current trends for the cleaning occupation. Possible interventions for risk reduction and future research directions are suggested.

Work-related overexertion injuries in cleaning occupations: An exploration of the factors to predict the days of absence by means of machine learning methodologies

The special characteristics of the cleaning industry have an important impact on the health and safety of its workforce. Making use of data from more than 79,000 occupational accidents, the aim of the present research is to use machine learning techniques to develop a model to predict incapacity for work (expressed in days of absence) due to work-related overexertion injuries among service sector cleaners in Spain. The severity of accidents caused by overexertion depends on several factors that can be classified into the following categories: injury typology, individual factors, employment conditions, accident circumstances and health and safety management and standards in the company.

Musculoskeletal symptoms and associated factors among manual porcelain workers at different workstations: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) symptoms and to identify the associated factors (individual, and work-related) among manual porcelain workers at different workstations. The risk level of each workstation was also assessed based on the working postures for the purpose of improving occupational health.

METHODS

In total, 349 workers were recruited for this cross-sectional study. The Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) was used to collect data on WMSDs symptoms in nine body regions. The relationship between individual/occupational factors and WMSDs symptoms was determined using multiple logistic regression analysis. The Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) method was applied to classify the risk level of working postures at the five workstations (shaping, trimming, glazing, painting, and burning).

RESULTS

The prevalence of musculoskeletal discomfort in at least one body region within the past 12 months was 69.1% among the participants: the neck (49.3%), lower back (43.8%), and shoulders (27.5%). Sex, work experience, daily working hours, perceived work fatigue, and workstation, were significantly associated with WMSDs symptoms in different body regions. The REBA indicated that 57.8% and 32.5% of the working postures were in the medium- and above high-risk levels, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The findings of this study showed a high occurrence of WMSDs symptoms among manual porcelain workers and suggested that both individual and work-related characteristics should be considered to improve occupational health. Furthermore, urgent ergonomic intervention is needed to avoid awkward working postures that cause WMSDs symptoms in porcelain workers, particularly at the shaping and burning workstations.

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Work-Related Upper Extremity Disorders among University Teaching Staff in Ethiopia, 2021: An Institution-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Background

Work-related upper extremity disorders (WRUEDs) are aches, pains, tension, and discomfort in the neck, shoulders, arms, wrists, hands, and fingers. The situation is escalating in educational sectors due to a lousy working environment intertwined with extracurricular deeds. However, empirical evidence focusing on academicians in higher education society is negligible. The purpose of this study is to examine the prevalence and risk factors of WRUEDs among university teaching staff in Ethiopia.

Materials and Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study design from March to April 2021. A sample of 607 academicians were recruited using a stratified sampling technique, and a self-administered structured Nordic Musculoskeletal questionnaire was used to assess upper extremity disorders during the past 12 months. The collected data were entered into EpiData version 4.6 and analyzed using STATA version 14 software. The association between dependent and independent variables was computed with a binary logistic regression. The association was ascertained using an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) at a p value of <0.05.

Results

A total of 607 participants correctly completed the questionnaire (response rate of 95.44%). Age ranges from 21 to 70 with a mean of 32.39 (SD ± 6.80)) years, and the majority (76.28%) of them were males. The prevalence of WRUED during the last 12 months was 59.14% [95% CI (55.1, 63.1)]. There is no significant difference in prevalence between males and females (45.14% versus 14%), respectively; χ² = 0.001; p=0.974. Working more than 8 hours per day [AOR: 2.37; 95% CI (1.40, 4.00)], not performing physical exercise [AOR: 2.34; 95% CI (1.6, 3.45)], and job dissatisfaction [AOR: 2.50; 95% CI (1.69, 3.68)] were factors significantly increased the risk of experiencing WRUEDs.

Conclusion

This study divulged upper extremity disorder among university teaching staff is pervasive, with more than three-fifth of the academicians were suffering from the condition, and it also indicates that males experienced higher proportions of pain than females. The manifestation of upper extremity disorder was affected by working hours per day, physical activity, and job satisfaction. Optimizing working hours, having a group regular exercise, and proper management of workplace conditions related to job satisfaction are recommended to lessen the condition.

Chronic Pain and Work Conditions of Hotel Housekeepers: A Descriptive Study

Objectives: To estimate the prevalence of musculoskeletal pain of hotel housekeepers (HHs) and to describe the work conditions and perception of health in this occupational group in the Balearic Islands, Spain. Methods: Cross-sectional descriptive study with HHs of the Balearic Islands, performed in primary care. Random sample of HHs who worked during the 2018 season. We collected information on sociodemographic variables, job characteristics, workload, pain, perceived health, and physical activity. After participants signed the informed consent form, we conducted a face-to-face interview in the primary care centre and accessed the participants’ electronic health records. Results: 1043 HHs aged 43.3 ± 10 years and with 10.7 ± 9.1 years worked as HHs were included. 51% (95% CI: 48–54%) reported chronic pain, mainly in the lower back 28.7% (95% CI: 25.9–31.5%), hands/wrists 23.7% (95% CI: 21.1–26.4%), neck 21.6% (95% CI: 19.1–24.3%), shoulders 19.9% (95% CI: 17.4–22.4%), and back 17.8% (95% CI: 15.4–20.2%). Pain was associated with older age, more years worked, more beds made/day and difficulty in pushing the housekeeping cart. More than half HHs reported that they did not incorporate occupational risk prevention measures (ORPMs) into their routine; 17.3% (95% CI: 15.1–19.7%) HHs considered their health as poor or very poor. Perception of health was worse in HHs with chronic pain. Conclusions: A high percentage of HHs of the Balearic Islands reported chronic pain, a low compliance with ORPMs and compared to women of the same sociodemographic profile they perceive a worse health status.

Prevalence of upper limb musculoskeletal disorders and its associated risk factors among janitorial workers: A cross-sectional study

Introduction

Methods

Results

Conclusions

•

WRMSDs is one of the causes of disability globally with significant economic impact.

•

The prevalence of WRMSDs among janitorial workers in university setting is scarce.

•

Regular screening is essential for monitoring the progress of severity of musculoskeletal symptoms.

•

WRMSDs surveillance will be beneficial for improvement of work procedures and practices.

Occupational-Related Upper and Lower Extremity Musculoskeletal Pain Among Working Population of Ethiopia: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background:

Currently, work-related musculoskeletal disorders are a significant public health concern and are a leading cause of disability-adjusted life years and reduced quality of life worldwide. In developing countries, including Ethiopia, as a result of poor occupational health and safety practices and underreporting of the problems, work-related musculoskeletal disorders have been increased, remaining less prioritized, and there is no adequate evidence on the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders. Thus, the current study aimed to determine and provide the overall prevalence of occupational-related upper and lower extremity musculoskeletal pain among the working population of Ethiopia.

Methods

The current study considered full-text articles conducted in Ethiopia, written in English, and published from 2017 to 2020. Ten electronic databases: PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, SCOPUS, Google Scholar, MedNar, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, African Index Medicus, and African Journals Online database were used to search the articles using a combination of Boolean logic operators (AND, OR, and NOT), Medical Subject Headings, and main keywords. The quality assessment of the articles was performed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal tools to determine the relevance of the article to the current study.

Results:

Of the 1377 articles identified from the included electronic databases, 12 studies were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. The study found that the pooled prevalence of occupational-related elbow pain, wrist/hand pain, knee/leg pain, foot/ankle pain, and hip/thigh pain in the previous one year was 19.7% (95% CI: 12.3, 30.1), 24.2% (95% CI: 17.4, 32.7), 25.0% (95% CI: 18.5, 32.8), 20.2% (95% CI: 12.8, 30.4), and 15.5% (95% CI: 9.9, 23.4), respectively. Based on a subgroup analysis, the last year’s pooled prevalence of occupational-related elbow, wrist/hand, knee/leg, foot/ankle, and hip/thigh pain was increased to 33.7% [95% CI: 31.9, 35.5], 29.7% [95% CI: 28.2, 31.2], 31.5% [95% CI: 29.9, 33.2], 30.6% [95% CI: 29.0, 32.4], and 27.3% [95% CI: 25.5, 29.2], respectively.

Conclusion:

Occupational-related musculoskeletal disorders continue to have a potential impact on workers’ health and productivity. The current study found that the overall pooled prevalence of occupational-related upper and lower extremity musculoskeletal disorders in the last year ranged from 15.5 to 33.7%. Implementing occupational health and safety measures play an important role in preventing work-related musculoskeletal disorders and other occupational hazards.

Self-Reported Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders and Associated Factors among Restaurant Workers in Gondar City, Northwest Ethiopia, 2020

Introduction

Globally, work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) have resulted in occupational disability and injury. Of these, restaurant workers are among the high-risk professionals usually affected by WMSDs. In Ethiopia, evidence on the burden of musculoskeletal disorder and contributing factors among restaurant workers were very limited. Therefore, this study was aimed at assessing the prevalence of self-reported WMSDs and contributing factors among restaurant workers in Gondar city, northwest Ethiopia, 2020.

Methods

An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted from February 2020 to March 2020 among restaurant workers in Gondar city. A two-stage sampling technique was used to choose 633 study subjects. A structured Nordic questioner was used to collect the data. Data was entered into EpiData version 3.1 and exported to Stata version 14.0 for analysis. Both bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were computed. An adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval was used to measure the association between WMSDs and independent variables. In the multivariable analysis, a P value of <0.05 was used to declare a statistically significant association. To check the goodness of fit, the Hosmer and Lemeshow test was used.

Results

The prevalence of WMSDs among restaurant workers in the past 12 months was 81.5% [95% CI (78.18-84.44)]. Attending primary education [AOR: 2.14, 95% CI (1.17-3.90)], attending secondary education [AOR: 1.71 (1.02-2.86)], and job satisfaction [AOR: 1.90, 95%CI (1.13-3.19)] were significantly associated with WMSDs.

Conclusion

In this study, the prevalence of WMSDs among restaurant workers was high. The upper back, lower back, elbow, and wrist were the most affected body parts. Age above 30 years, educational status being primary and secondary, and being dissatisfied by their job were positively associated with a high prevalence of WMSDs.

The prevalence and risk factors of musculoskeletal disorders among subcontracted hospital cleaners in Thailand

Purpose

This research aimed to explore the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and related factors among subcontracted cleaners in a teaching hospital in Thailand.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional study was conducted of 393 subcontracted cleaners in a teaching hospital, from May to June 2020. Face-to-face interviews were carried out using a standard questionnaire, consisting of four parts: (1) participant characteristics, (2) stress test, (3) work characteristics and (4) standardized Nordic questionnaire, Thai version, for MSDs outcome. Multiple logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the association between MSDs and related factors.

Findings

The prevalence of MSDs was 81.9%, involving mostly the lower back (57.7%), followed by the shoulder (52.6%). Factors significantly associated with MSDs were as follows: male gender (OR = 3.06, 95% CI [1.19, 7.87]), severe stress (OR = 2.72, 95% CI [1.13, 6.54]), history of injuries (OR = 4.37, 95% CI [1.27, 15.11]), mopping posture (OR = 2.81, 95% CI [1.43, 5.50]) and task duration (OR = 1.90, 95% CI [1.01, 3.57] for 2–4 h and OR = 3.39, 95% CI [1.17, 9.86] for more than 4 h). Sick leave due to MSDs was associated with history of injuries, Thai nationality and having another part-time job.

Originality/value

The study findings about MSDs in terms of prevalence and related factors contributed to limited pool of the knowledge among subcontracted hospital cleaners in Thailand and middle-income country settings. With growing popularity in outsourcing cleaning services among hospitals in these countries, the study findings could raise a concern and inform policymakers and hospital administrators the importance of the magnitude and risk factors for MSDs necessitating design of preventive strategies.

Predictors of work-related musculoskeletal symptoms in shoulders among nursing assistants working in nursing homes

Nursing assistants (NAs) working in nursing homes (NHs) are at higher risk for work-related musculoskeletal symptoms (WRMSs) than their counterparts working in other health care settings. Worldwide, NAs have ranked shoulders in the top three body parts at risk of WRMSs. However, factors associated with their shoulder WRMSs are currently unknown. The aim of this study was to identify these associated risk factors among NAs working in NHs. 440 NAs from 47 nursing homes (with 60–90% response rate from each nursing home), recruited by convenience sampling, participated in this cross-sectional study in 2014–2015. A validated and reliable questionnaire was used for data collection. Information on demographic, job content questionnaire (JCQ), perceived physical exertion (PE), workstyle, ergonomic and manual handling knowledge and other work-related factors was collected using a self-administered questionnaire. 53% of the participants reported experiencing with WRMSs in their shoulders. Nine associated factors of shoulder WRMSs were identified using bivariate analysis. With the adjustment of age and gender using multivariable logistic regression, body mass index (OR = .931, 95% CI [.874–.991]), job title of health workers (OR = 2.72, 95% CI [1.18–6.25]) and workstyle-working through pain (OR = 1.06, 95% CI [1.01–1.11]) remained as predictors. Effort should be directed at integrating “workstyle intervention” into lifestyle physical activity training for NAs.

Insufficient Rest Breaks at Workplace and Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Korean Kitchen Workers

Background

The socioeconomic burden of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) is significant, and kitchen work is a high-risk occupation for MSDs due to the intensive manual workload and repetitive movements that are involved. However, there are very few studies on MSDs and rest breaks as a workplace intervention among kitchen workers. This study examined the relationship between insufficient rest breaks and increased MSD risk among Korean kitchen workers.

Methods

Sociodemographic and occupational factors of 1,909 kitchen workers were collected from the 3rd–4th Korean Working Conditions Survey data. Five items on rest breaks at work were categorized into two groups, “sufficient” and “insufficient.” The number of MSDs and work-related MSDs (WMSDs), an outcome variable, was obtained from the sum of MSDs/WMSDs in three anatomical sites (back, neck, and upper limb, lower limb). The association between rest breaks and MSDs was estimated using zero-inflated negative binomial analyses, with adjustments for age, education level, and weekly working hours, and the analyses were stratified by sex.

Results

After adjustment, significant associations were found between insufficient rest breaks and an increased risk of MSDs (odds ratio [OR] 1.68 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.11–2.54) and WMSDs (OR 1.40 95% CI 1.01–1.96) among female kitchen workers. Insufficient rest breaks were significantly associated with MSDs in female kitchen workers in all three anatomical sites.

Conclusion

This study emphasizes the need for rest breaks as a workplace intervention for preventing MSDs in kitchen workers. Further studies to reveal the causality of this relationship are required.

Occupational Related Upper and Low Back Pain Among the Working Population of Ethiopia: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Back pain, such as upper and low back pain are among the most common musculoskeletal conditions that can cause major public health and socioeconomic problems. Back pain is one of the leading causes of disability that reduces worker performance and well-being and increases absence from work, which can cause an enormous economic burden. In developing countries, particularly in Ethiopia, there is no adequate evidence on the overall prevalence of occupational-related upper and low back pain, and they remain less prioritized and empirically unrepresented. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of occupational-related upper and low back pain among the working population of Ethiopia.

METHODS

This systematic review and meta-analysis considered studies conducted in Ethiopia, written in English, and published from 2017 to 2020. Articles were searched from 9 electronic databases (Web of Science, SCOPUS, PubMed, Google Scholar, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, African Index Medicus, African Journals Online database, and Science Direct) using a combination of Boolean logic operators, Medical Subject Headings, and main keywords. The quality assessment of the articles was performed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal tools to determine the relevance of the articles to the study. A random effects model was used to estimate the pooled prevalence, the 95% confidence interval, and the degree of heterogeneity among the included studies. Sensitivity analyses were performed to identify the influence of outliers and to identify sources of heterogeneity.

RESULTS

Of the 1114 studies identified from the included databases, 20 studies were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of occupational-related upper and low back pain in the previous year was (27.1% [95% CI: 18.4, 37.9]) and (54.2% [95% CI: 48.2, 60.0]), respectively. Based on a subgroup analysis by publication year, study population, and regions where the studies were conducted, the prevalence of upper back pain was (43.8% [95% CI: 39.3, 47.7]), (34.7% [95% CI: 33.1, 36.2]), and (36.2% [95% CI: 33.6, 39.0]), respectively, while the prevalence of low back pain was (61.8% [95% CI: 58.9, 64.6], (52.8% [95% CI: 51.3, 54.3]), and (55.2% [95% CI: 51.4, 59.0]), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review and meta-analysis found that 54.2% of the included study participants experienced low back pain in the previous year, while 27.1% experienced upper back pain. The highest prevalence was reported among pedestrian back-loading women.

Perceived Factors of Stress and Its Outcomes among Hotel Housekeepers in the Balearic Islands: A Qualitative Approach from a Gender Perspective

Tourism is the main economic sector in the Balearic Islands (Spain) and hotel housekeepers (HHs) are a large occupational group, in which stress is becoming a major issue. This study aims at exploring in-depth factors perceived as stressors by HHs and key-informants, and their effects on work-life balance (WLB). A qualitative design with phenomenological approach was used, conducting six focus groups with 34 HHs and 10 individual interviews with key-informants. Results were analyzed adopting the job demands-resources model and a gender perspective. High demands, e.g., work overload, time pressure, physical burden…, lack of enough resources and little control, derived from role conflict, unexpected events…, were the most important factors explaining HHs' stress. Additionally, this imbalance was perceived as leading to health problems, mainly musculoskeletal disorders. Working schedule was mentioned as a facilitator to WLB, whereas an imbalance between job demands and resources led to work-home conflict, preventing them from enjoying leisure time. Multiple roles at work and at home increased their stress. HHs experienced their job as invisible and unrecognised. Regarding practical implications, our recommendations for hotel organization include reducing workload and increasing resources, which would improve the job demands-resource balance, diminish negative mental and physical outcomes and improve WLB.

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders and associated factors among bank workers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study

Background

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are dramatically increased in the world due to the advancement of technology and competitiveness of markets. There were limited studies carried out regarding WMSDs among bank workers in Africa particularly in Ethiopia. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the magnitude of work-related musculoskeletal disorders and associated factors among bank workers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Methods

Institution-based cross-sectional study design was employed in the study. Multi-stage sampling techniques were used to select 838 bank workers from 62 banks in Addis Ababa. Self-administered standard Nordic questionnaires were used as well. Multivariable binary logistic regression analyses were employed to identify factors associated with WMSDs. Moreover adjusted odds ratio (AOR), 95% confidence interval (CI) and p value < 0.05 was used to show the strength of association between explanatory variables and dependent variable.

Results

Out of 838 total numbers of participants, 755 bank workers returned their questionnaires responding with a rate of 90%. Of these, 77.6% (N = 586) suffered WMSDs with a 95% CI [75–81%]. Based on the final multivariate logistic regression analysis being female [AOR = 2.98, 95% CI 1.91–4.65], sitting back in a twisted position [AOR = 3.59, 95% CI 2.13–6.08], sitting back bent [AOR = 4.06, 95% CI 2.48–6.66], work on fixed position [AOR = 1.78, 95% CI 1.17–2.71], no work time break [AOR = 3.33, 95% CI 1.44–7.71], type of chairs [AOR = 2.62, 95% CI 1.19–5.75] and job stress [AOR = 2.33, 95% CI 1.19–4.54] were factors significantly associated with WMSDs.

Conclusion

From the study’s findings, the magnitude of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among bank workers was high. Being female, awkward posture, no work time break, fixed position, type of chairs, and job stress are the factors significantly associated with WMSDs. So bank workers should use proper types of chairs, practice proper work posture, increase healthy working conditions, and create awareness programs on how to maintain beneficial health conditions which may lead to increased leisure time.

The prevalence and risk factors of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among adults in Ethiopia: a study protocol for extending a systematic review with meta-analysis of observational studies

BACKGROUND

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders impose a significant and most often underappreciated burden to the individual, nation, healthcare system, and society as a whole. To the best of our knowledge, there is a lack of reliable estimates on the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders in Ethiopia. The objective of this study will be to assess the existing literature on the prevalence rates and determinant factors of work-related musculoskeletal disorders in Ethiopia.

METHOD

We will search PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, SCOPUS, PsycINFO, PEDro, and Ebsco (from January 2000 onwards). Gray literature will be identified through searching Google Scholar and dissertation databases. Observational studies reporting on the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among adult Ethiopians will be included. The primary outcome will be the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Secondary outcomes will be the prevalence of any risk factors in association with work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Two reviewers will independently screen all citations, full-text articles, and abstract data. The study methodological quality (or bias) will be appraised using an appropriate tool. If feasible, we will conduct random effects meta-analysis of observational data. Subgroup analyses will be conducted to explore the potential sources of heterogeneity (e.g., gender, sample size, type of occupation). Publication bias and heterogeneity between the included studies will also be assessed and reported.

DISCUSSION

This systematic review will provide a synthesis of the literature on the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders and their risk factors in Ethiopia. The results of this review could help the policymakers in occupational health and healthcare sectors in identifying priority areas for interventions in work-related musculoskeletal disorders and will also serve as a baseline for the decision-making processes of musculoskeletal health promotion, work exposure implementations, and prevention programs in workplaces.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

PROSPERO, CRD42020164240.

Cross-Sectional Survey of Musculoskeletal Disorders in Workers Practicing Traditional Methods of Underground Coal Mining

Background: In subcontinental underground mines, coal mining is carried out manually and requires many laborers to practice traditional means of coal excavation. Each task of this occupation disturbs workers’ musculoskeletal order. In order to propose and practice possible ergonomic interventions, it is necessary to know what tasks (drilling and blasting, coal cutting, dumping, transporting, timbering and supporting, loading and unloading) cause disorder in either upper limbs, lower limbs, or both. Methods: To this end, R-programming, version R 3.1.2 and SPSS, software 20, were used to calculate data obtained by studying 260 workers (working at different tasks of coal mining) from 20 mines of four districts of Punjab, Pakistan. In addition, a Standard Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (SNMQ) and Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) sheet were used to collect data and to analyze postures respectively. Results: In multi regression models, significance of the five tasks for upper and lower limb disorder is 0.00, which means that task based prevalence of upper and lower limb disorders are common in underground coal mines. The results of the multiple bar chart showed that 96 coal cutters got upper limb disorders and 82 got lower limb disorders. The task of timbering and supporting was shown to be dangerous for the lower limbs and relatively less dangerous for the upper limbs, with 25 workers reporting pain in their lower limbs, and 19 workers reporting pain in their upper limbs. Documented on the RULA sheet, all tasks got the maximum possible score (7), meaning that each of these tasks pose a threat to the posture of 100% of workers. The majority of participants (182) fell in the age group of 26 to 35 years. Of those workers, 131 reported pain in the lower limbs and slight discomfort (128) in the upper limbs. The significance value of age was 0.00 for upper limb disorder and was 0.012 for lower limb disorder. Frequency graphs show age in direct proportion to severity of pain while in inverse proportion with number of repetitions performed per min. Conclusions: All findings infer that each task of underground coal mining inflicts different levels of disorder in a workers’ musculoskeletal structure of the upper and lower limbs. It highlighted the need for urgent intervention in postural aspects of each task.