Task-based evaluation of WRMSDs prevailing amongst workers in building construction: An occupational and socioeconomic perspective

J Back Musculoskelet Rehabil. 2024;37(6):1649-1661. doi: 10.3233/BMR-240078.

Abstract

Background: The construction of buildings is risky for workers' musculoskeleton.

Objective: This study aims to calculate the significance of risk associated with work-related musculoskeletal disorders.

Method: 600 workers from 20 construction sites were surveyed using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (modified) and their performance was assessed at seven construction-tasks using RULA and REBA sheets. SPSS v. 26 and R programming were used for statistical analysis.

Results: The mean value of workers' age was 28.4381 years, with 8.8205 working months/year and 65USDs monthly earnings. Maximum reporting of body discomfort was by workers of window/door framing. Workers' BMI (35-44 kg/m2) and break duration (< 15 minutes) prompted neck pain with OR 7.79 (95% CI 1.135-53.587) and OR 1.179 (95%CI 0.231-6.014) respectively. Bagging was dangerous for the ankle with OR 9.881 (95% CI 5.140-18.994), and window/door framing for feet with OR 2.057 (95% CI 1.196-3.539). The mean value of the RULA grand score ranged from 5.89 (lowest for 'leveling') to 9.25 (highest for 'demolishing'), and the REBA sheet between 8-11 for all seven studied work-stages.

Conclusion: Workers' upper and lower limbs are affected by the work-stages they perform and the social lifestyle they live in. These findings from 600 workers are sufficient to be generalized for intervention.

Keywords: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders; arthrogryposis; construction buildings; lower extremity deformities; multiplex congenital; socioeconomic plights; upper extremity deformities.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Construction Industry*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Musculoskeletal Diseases*
  • Occupational Diseases*
  • Socioeconomic Factors
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Young Adult