Korean J Occup Environ Med.  2011 Mar;23(1):9-17.

Relationship between Musculoskeletal Symptoms and Non-fatal Occupational Injuries in Construction Workers in Korea

• Yoo SW
• Lee HE
• Koh DH
• Kim KS
• Kim TW
• Kim MG
• Yu KY

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
This study aimed to assess the relationship between musculoskeletal symptoms and non-fatal injuries in construction workers.
METHODS
This was a cross-sectional study involving 1,836 male construction workers in petrochemical plants in Korea. For this study, a structured self-reported questionnaire(KOSHA CODE H-30-2003) was used. Musculoskeletal symptoms were defined as symptoms that affect the operation of the musculoskeletal system, for longer than one week or a frequency of more than once per month. To evaluate the association between musculoskeletal symptoms and non-fatal occupatioanl injuries, multiple logistic-regressions were used after adjusting for age, exercise, smoking status, alcohol consumption, work time, work duration, and income.
RESULTS
A total of 140 workers were involved in non-fatal injuries cases, representing 7.6% prevalence. After adjusting for confounding variables, the logistic regression analyses indicated the group with musculoskeletal symptoms(OR 1.73 95% CI:1.21~2.47) and intensity criteria of musculoskeletal symptoms as related to 'moderate' criteria(OR 1.82 95% CI:1.18~2.81) or 'severe' criteria(OR 2.57 95% CI:1.43~4.63). This identified group was more likely to experience non-fatal occupational injuries. However, a 'mild' criteria(OR 1.00 95% CI:0.51~1.99) was not associated with non-fatal occupational injuries.
CONCLUSIONS
The results indicated a possible association between musculoskeletal symptoms and non-fatal injuries. Hence, strengthening of laws and regulations, effective ergonomic programs and training is necessary to prevent musculoskeletal symptoms.

Keyword

Occupational injury; Musculoskeletal symptoms; Construction workers

MeSH Terms

Alcohol Drinking
Confounding Factors (Epidemiology)
Cross-Sectional Studies
Humans
Jurisprudence
Korea
Logistic Models
Male
Multiple Trauma
Musculoskeletal System
Occupational Injuries
Prevalence
Smoke
Smoking
Social Control, Formal
Smoke