Prevalence, Pattern and Factors Associated with Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMD) among Housekeeping Workers in a Private Tertiary Care Hospital in Bangalore

Abstract

Introduction: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMDs) represent one of the most common and important occupational health problems in the working population; they negatively impact the quality of life and are a cause for major economic burden in the form of compensation and lost wages. Objectives: To assess the prevalence, pattern and factors associated with WRMD among housekeeping workers in a private tertiary care hospital in Bangalore. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among housekeeping workers in a private tertiary care hospital from May to September 2014. A pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire was administered which included socio-demographic details and the standardized Nordic questionnaire (SNQ). Out of the 130 workers, we were able to contact 83 workers (as some were on long leave and some left the job). Results: Among the 83 housekeeping workers studied, the mean age was 37.4 ± 2.42 years. Prevalence of WRMD was estimated to be 68.3 per cent and the pattern of pain was found to be high for low back and least for ankles. There was a significant association between the prevalence of pain with increased duration of work hours and years of employment. Conclusion: This study showed a high prevalence of WRMD among housekeeping staff which is associated with long hours of work and years of work. We can aim at reducing the WRMD by giving health education about ergonomics, recommending job rotation and in severe cases even physiotherapy.