Epidemiology approach of cold exposure and musculoskeletal disorders

• Both physical conditions and psychosocial factors at the workplace are implicated in the origin of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs); however, the evidence is stronger for physical conditions. Some epidemiologic studies have shown a relationship between exposure to cold and the development of musculoskeletal disorders, especially for neck and upper extremity. In order to compare the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms between cold-exposed and non-cold exposed workers, a cross-sectional epidemiologic study was performed. The Standardized Nordic Questionnaire was administered to all workers in the packing areas (162) in a large meat processing company in Colombia. The workers were divided in two groups: exposed (50 workers) working in very cold areas (+ 2oC), and less exposed (112 workers) working in less severe conditions (+ 9.4oC). The results show a high prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms among cold- exposed workers, especially for low back, neck and shoulders (48%, 36% and 24%). The estimated relative risks for neck and low back were 11.2 (95% CI 1.34 - 93.41) and 4.48 (95% CI 1.61 - 12.42), respectively. The authors conclude that these strong associations between cold exposure and musculoskeletal disorders are plausible but the mechanisms remain largely obscure and require further research, both experimental and epidemiologic.

Ämnesord

TEKNIK OCH TEKNOLOGIER  -- Maskinteknik -- Produktionsteknik, arbetsvetenskap och ergonomi (hsv//swe)

ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY  -- Mechanical Engineering -- Production Engineering, Human Work Science and Ergonomics (hsv//eng)

Nyckelord

Industrial Work Environment

Industriell produktionsmiljö

Publikations- och innehållstyp

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