Evaluation of Musculoskeletal Disorders Risk Factors by REBA and QEC Methods in an Aluminum Industry

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are the most common problems in workplaces. The present study assessed the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders and the level of risk for these disorders among workers of an aluminum industry in Tehran.
In this cross-sectional study, Nordic questionnaire was used in order to assess musculoskeletal disorders among all workers in production line of the mentioned industry (82 workers) and to determine musculoskeletal disorders risk levels, workers’ body posture was assessed by REBA (Rapid Entire Body Assessment) and QEC (Quick Exposure Check) techniques. Statistical analysis was conducted using Chi-square test and through SPSS16 software.
According to the results, 83.9 percent of the subjects have complained from pain in at least one of ​​their body areas during the past year. The highest prevalence of disorders was respectively allocated to the low back (48.2%), knee (35.7%) and wrist/hand (33.9%). The prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders showed significant correlation with age, job experience and BMI. But, REBA and QEC final scores had no significant correlations with the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders. According to REBA and QEC, respectively 43.6 and 67.2 percent of postures were categorized in high and very high risk levels.
High prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders and levels of risk, prioritize the necessity of corrective actions. Higher percent of high risk level in QEC than REBA can be attributed to the capability of this tool in combined investigation of work posture, work related risk factors and mental disorders affecting the incidence of these disorders.