Work-related musculoskeletal disorders among clinical laboratory workers
AtheerF AlNekhilan, AnfalM AlTamimi, BothainahY AlAqeel, AlanoudA AlHawery, S Alfadhel, EmadM Masuadi
Abstract
<b>Aims and Objectives</b>: The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence and risk factors of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) among clinical laboratory workers. <b>Materials and Methods</b>: This questionnaire-based cross-sectional study included the clinical laboratory departments of six governmental tertiary and secondary hospitals in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The selected instrument was a self-administered adapted standardized questionnaire. The sample comprised 306 laboratory workers, and the selected sampling technique was a non-random convenient method. <b>Results</b>: The overall prevalence of WMSDs in any body region was 82% in the last 12 months; it was mainly linked to lower back pain (61%). In the logistic regression, age <30 years, working in specific laboratories and working in hematology/flow-cytometry laboratory divisions were all found to be significant risk factors (<i>P</i> < 0.05). <b>Conclusion</b>: Clinical laboratory workers are at a high risk for WMSDs; it is essential that we take preventative action to address this.