Prevalence and Risk Factors Associated with Musculoskeletal Discomfort among Street Sweepers in Chiang Rai Province, Thailand

Abstract

Background: High prevalence of work related musculoskeletal discomfort among street sweepers is reported worldwide. Risk factors of musculoskeletal discomfort in street sweepers include repetitive movement, prolonged duration and poor posture. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal discomfort and to find the risk factors association with musculoskeletal discomfort among street sweepers.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Chiang Rai province, Thailand. Four sub-districts in Chiang Rai municipality were selected, including Wiang, Robe Wiang, Rimkok and Sansai. The study used the Standardized Nordic questionnaires with 75 male and female street sweepers who volunteered to participate in the study. They were full-time workers between 18 – 60 years old.

Results: The overall prevalence rates of musculoskeletal discomfort among street sweepers, in the past 12 month and in the past 7 days, were 88% and 85.3%, respectively. The top three prevalence rates of musculoskeletal discomfort in the past 12 months were 86.7% in the wrists/hands, 84% in shoulders and 76% in neck. The top three prevalence rate of musculoskeletal discomfort in the past 7 days were 84% in the wrists/hands, 81.3% in shoulders and 69% in the neck. Musculoskeletal discomfort was positively associated with personal factors including age, cigarette smoking, alcohol drinking and Body Mass Index (BMI). Working factors positively associated with musculoskeletal discomfort included working experience, street sweeping distance, weight and length of broom, and weight of broom and dustpan (p<0.05 in multiple logistic regression).

Conclusions: Street sweepers have high potential for musculoskeletal discomfort, which can be associated with repetitive movements and awkward postures. The relevant authorities should consider providing practical programs to improve health of their employees and reduce musculoskeletal discomfort. These programs might include training courses, stretching exercises and posture adjustment