Work-related risk associated with musculoskeletal disorders amongst flower farm workers in Kenya

Abstract

Background: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) are a public concern to social-care and health systems, as well as individuals. Globally, WRMSDs are classified as one of the prevalent causes of disability. Objectives: The primary objective of this study was to determine work-related risk associated with musculoskeletal disorders amongst flower farm workers. The secondary objective was to determine the relationship between WRMSD risk over the previous 12 months and socio-demographic characteristics. Method: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted. A sample of 270 participants was drawn from 897 farm workers, of which 184 presented with WRMSD as assessed using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. Quantitative data were collected using the Rapid Entire Body Assessment questionnaire. Inferential statistics were analyzed using the Pearson's chi-squared test (X2) test and based on an alpha level of p< 0.05. Descriptive statistics were presented using frequencies and percentages. Results: Respondents who reported medium risk were 49 (26.6%), 80 (43.5%) reported high risk while 55 (29.9%) reported very high risk. There was no relationship between WRMSD risk and socio-demographic characteristics. Conclusions: Flower farm workers in Kenya were found to be at risk of sustaining WRMSDs although socio-demographic factors did not play a role in the level of risk. Clinical Implications: The high prevalence of WRMSDs necessitates policy reform in the flower farm industry. Furthermore, the timely identification of potential disorders and the associated risk factors is necessary to ensure early intervention. KEY WORDS: Work-related risk, Work-related musculoskeletal disorders, Farm workers.