Parichehr Rashidi-Molkesari, Mohsen Gorgani-Firoozjaei, Shahnaz Tabatabaei, Fatemeh Chaharaghran,
Volume 9, Issue 4 (Iranian Journal of Ergonomics 2022)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Musculoskeletal disorders and low quality of life are the most common problems among paddy farmers in the world. Paddy farmers are exposed to inappropriate postures, long working hours and stressful environmental conditions. The aim of this study was to compare different farming methods of rice cultivation (traditional and semi-modern) on the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders and life quality of paddy farmers.
Methods: This descriptive-analytical study was conducted in rice fields with 150 paddy farmers as a sample group (100 traditional paddy farmers and 50 semi-modern paddy farmers). Musculoskeletal disorders and quality of life were assessed using the Nordic questionnaire and the Lancashire Quality of Life Profile, respectively.
Results: The prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in the neck, lower back and shoulders is higher in traditional paddy farmers compared to farmers who work in semi-modern rice cultivation system. Present results demonstrated that there was no significant difference between various rice cultivation methods and musculoskeletal disorders on life quality. Furthermore, different farming methods of paddy cultivation have no significant effect on paddy farmers' life quality.
Conclusion: The prevalence of lower back musculoskeletal disorders among paddy farmers portrays the consequence from long-term exposure to inappropriate posture from strenous activity.
Miss Shiva Mohammadjani Kumeleh, Mr Mohammad Amin Rashidi, Mr Azim Akbari,
Volume 12, Issue 4 (Iranian Journal of Ergonomics-In Press 2025)
Abstract
Background and Aims: Administrative employees are often at risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders due to prolonged computer use. Additionally, frequent interactions with clients expose them to a high mental workload and job stress. This study aims to assess the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders, mental workload, general health, and job stress among administrative employees, to improve their working conditions.
Materials and Methods: The study is a cross-sectional descriptive-analytical study conducted among the administrative employees of an engineering company in 2021, and finally 119 people participated in the study by census method. Demographic information questionnaires and ROSA, Cornell, NASA-TLX, GHQ, and HSE-UK job stress checklists were used to collect data. Data analysis was performed using SPSS software, employing descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA).
Results: According to the posture assessment with the ROSA method, the average final ROSA score was 4.33±1.03. Examination of mental load with the NASA-TLX index showed that 78% have a high mental load. According to the GHQ questionnaire, the average final general health score is 24.4 ± 11.73. Also, based on the HSE-UK occupational stress questionnaire, more than 80% (103 people) of employees were under severe stress and 12% (15 people) were under critical stress. A significant relationship was observed between occupational stress, body mass index, and age (p<0.05).
Conclusion: Implementing intervention and control measures to improve musculoskeletal disorders, workload, general health, and job stress is essential.
