Study on ergonomic risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders in the academic environments of engineering technology students

Abstract

The students can pursue careers as technologists with relevant engineering competencies in technological institutes. Since students studying technology spend most of their time in academic settings and have a constant posture, most individuals may exhibit musculoskeletal disorder symptoms (MSD). Therefore, the study aims to identify the prevalence rate and possible risk factors associated with developing MSD among technology students in Sri Lanka. The objectives were to ascertain the prevalence rate, identify potential risk factors for the development of MSDs, and propose interventions to mitigate the risks to lessen the MSDs among Sri Lankan technology students. The quantitative descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out among 244 technology students at the Advanced Technological Institutes in Sri Lanka's Southern and Western provinces to determine the possible ergonomic risk factors associated with MSD and analyze the outcomes behavior of students for one year, which may cause MSD-related issues. A standard Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) including 15 body parts was used to assess the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders. Ultimately, the statistical analysis procedure was performed using the software SPSS-22 for this study. The Quick Exposure Checklist (QEC) was used to examine the four main body parts (neck, wrist/hand, shoulder/arm, and back); meanwhile, the psychosocial factors checklist was also validated through the Perceived Stress Score (PSS). The study revealed an 86% prevalence of MSDs and the highest prevalence in the lower back (65.6%, n = 160). Then, in the next range, the neck is 59.4%, the knees 50.8%, the wrists 34%, the shoulders, and the lowest fingers (14.6%). The demographic factors affecting MSDs are BMI, family status, and daily travel. Physical and environmental risk factors include desk and bench configurations, aging tools and equipment, and awkward posture due to repetitive actions. In addition, time pressure, exposure to bullying, and raging aggression were identified as psychological elements. It is possible to reduce the prevalence of students’ MSD by raising awareness programs, ergonomic seating arrangements, eliminating hazards by implementing preventative measures for productivity, and promoting a safe environment.