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An integrative approach for evaluating work related musculoskeletal disorders
W MISHRA, D AMITABHA, R IQBAL, A M CHANDRA,
Published in IOS PRESS
2012
Volume: 43
   
Issue: 4
Pages: 437 - 446
Abstract
Objectives: To develop a framework for evaluating the work related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs). Participants: The proposed framework was tested on 15~jewellery manufacturing workers working at Chinchpokhli region in Mumbai, India and on 15 students studying in a management institute of Mumbai, India. Methods: The framework has been broken into three phases. Phase 1-Ergonomic-risk evaluation; Phase~2-Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSD) evaluation and Phase 3-Clinical examination. Ergonomic-risk evaluation determines the relationship between work relatedness and musculoskeletal disorders. Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSD) evaluation tries to assess the presence of discomforts/disabilities in different body regions, through subjective evaluation tools. Ergonomic-risk evaluation involved QEC, PLIBEL and posture analysis by RULA. Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSD) evaluation involved administration of self reported questionnaires. Clinical examination involved muscle grading by a physiotherapist and back strength measurement. Results: The framework suggested that ergonomic risk evaluation techniques, self reported body part questionnaires and physical measurement of physiological/biomechanical transients may have a relationship and can be used for the evaluation of work related musculoskeletal disorders. Conclusion: The proposed integrative approach will help in developing stage wise intervention strategies for work related musculoskeletal disorders. © 2012 - IOS Press and the authors. All rights reserved.
About the journal
JournalWork
PublisherIOS PRESS
ISSN1051-9815