Korean J Occup Health Nurs.  2020 Feb;29(1):58-68. 10.5807/kjohn.2020.29.1.58.

Relationship between Workplace Hazard Exposures and Chronic Health Problems in Korea: The Fifth Korean Working Conditions Survey

• Kim YH

• KMID: 2509014
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5807/kjohn.2020.29.1.58

Abstract

Purpose
Workers with chronic health problems find it difficult to maintain their work because of socioeconomic difficulties. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationships between physical, ergonomic, and mental health hazards in the workplace and chronic health problems of Korean workers.
Methods
A total of 28,807 wage workers participated in the study and were selected using the Fifth Korean Working Conditions Survey (2017). Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to determine the associations between physical, ergonomic, and mental health hazards and chronic health problems.
Results
Of the participants, 1,220 (4.23%) had chronic health problems. Even after adjusting the general characteristics, vibration, noise, high temperature, low temperature, dust, chemical and cigarette smoke, fatigue and painful posture, dragging or pushing or moving of heavy objects, repetitive hand or arm movements, working with a computer or smartphone, use of internet or e-mail, and anxiety situations increased the risk of chronic health problems.
Conclusion
The study reaffirms that exposure of physical, ergonomic, and mental health hazards in the workplace significantly increases the risk of chronic health problems.

Keyword

Chronic health problems; Hazard; Exposure; KWCS; Worker