Recognition of musculoskeletal disorders among workers of the electronic industry in Udon Thani province

Abstract

      This cross-sectional survey study aimed to investigate the musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among workers of the electronic industry. There were 204 workers selected from production department in one electronic industry in Udon Thani province participated in this study. Data were collected by the interview using the structural questionnaires and work environmental survey for lighting intensities and sound level measurement. Among the 204 workers, 88.7% were female. The average age was 26.6 years. For working position, 50.0% of those being used microscope to inspection while 49.0% used drill cutting. The working time was 6 days per week and 10 hours per day (100%). Most of them had the repetitive works (97.5%). There were 54.3% of worker being prolonged sitting posture at work over 2 hours per days while 47.2% also were prolonged standing posture at work over 2 hours per day. Light intensities at 6 areas of working: were followed the standard requirement. Sound level at punching area was 84.3 – 85.6 dB(A) which was followed the standard. The prevalence of MSDs during the last one month period were predominantly found in the following three anatomical areas: shoulder (79.4%, 95%CI : 74.5 – 85.3 ), neck ( 75.0%, 95%CI : 69.0 – 81.7 ) and upper back ( 70.6%, 95%CI : 64.5 – 77.6 ). When the severity was considered, severity of MSDs at level of moderate pain at least showed that MSDs during the last one month were predominantly found in the same anatomical areas. These findings of high prevalence of MSDs suggest that, there should be the surveillance of MSDs among electronic workers. Moreover, workers have to learn of basic ergonomics, the right posture of to avoid MSDs. The monitoring program of work environment and management of optimum work period should be considered.