THE RELATION BETWEEN PSYCHOSOCIAL WORK FACTORS AND MUSCULOSKELETAL SYMPTOMS AMONG COMPUTER WORKERS

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Several epidemiological studies have shown that intensive computer work and other factors of work organization, involving physical and psychosocial exposure to computer work, are associated with increased risk of neck and upper extremity disorders.OBJECTIVES:The aim of this study is to present psychosocial work factors and their relationship to musculoskeletal symptoms among computer workers.MATERIAL AND METHODS: The Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (COPSOQ) for assessing psychosocial factors at work was used to assess 800 computer workers.RESULTS: The results showed that most respondents often worked at a high pace; sometimes received support from superiors, and were little satisfied with work. There was a positive correlation (r = 0.3) between quantitative demands at work and neck symptoms.CONCLUSION: Particular attention should be paid to psychosocial factors of the work environment, especially those with a significant high risk of workers acquiring musculoskeletal symptoms, in relation to assistance in the work environment, management, workload, and increasing autonomy at work.