Psychosocial Risk Factors for Musculoskeletal Symptoms of Construction Workers

Abstract

Several previous studies have stated that there are several risk factors that affect musculoskeletal disorders on construction workers. Most of the studies have reported the existence of individual and physical risk factors, but only few studies have focused on psychosocial risk factors. The present study included 45 construction workers of a building construction project. A self-reported measurement questionnaire was used to determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms. The results showed that shoulder pain was most felt by workers during the last seven days and the last 12 months. Regarding to the prevalence felt during the last seven days, factor of reward was significantly associated with knee pain (OR: 0.09; 95% CI: 0.01-0.99). Regarding to the prevalence felt during the last 12 months, factor of weight was significantly associated with upper back (OR: 1.11; 95% CI: 1.01-1.22) and shoulder (OR: 1.09; 95% CI: 1.00-1.18). Body mass index was significantly associated with upper back (OR: 1.35; 95% CI: 1.01-1.22) and shoulder (OR: 1.31; 95% CI: 1.01-1.71). Results of this study indicated that psychosocial risk factors have significant roles in developing musculoskeletal disorders.