RISK FACTORS FOR THE PREVALENCE OF THE UPPER LIMB AND NECK WORK-RELATED MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS AMONG POULTRY SLAUGHTER WORKERS

Abstract

Poultry slaughtering reports a high prevalence of upper limb work-related musculoskeletal disorders (UL-WMSDs). The main risk factors associated with upper limb and neck work-related musculoskeletal disorders are repetitiveness, high frequency of action, excessive force, awkward posture, insufficient recovery time and exposure to cold temperature. The purpose of this study was to identify and describe the prevalence of upper limb and neck symptoms among poultry slaughter workers in Iran, using the Nordic standardized questionnaire and occupational repetitive action (OCRA) checklist method. The study subjects consisted of 68% male and 32% female with a mean age 28.88 ± 0.56. Two hundred twelve poultry slaughter workers were interviewed. Out of every 20 workers, in the last 12 months, 12 reported pain in the upper limb and neck. Statistical analysis showed a significant association between the OCRA level of risk and UP-WMSD symptom (ρ < 0.05). The results of this study revealed that upper limb and neck symptoms occurred in high rates among poultry slaughter workers. This study provides information for the prevalence of upper limb and neck symptoms among poultry slaughter workers in Iran, and the results suggest interventions for hands/wrist, elbow, shoulder and neck pain should be important and major priority.