Musculoskeletal disorders in Brick kiln workers: Incidence and effectiveness of workers education program

Dr. Vijay V. Nemade

Volume : III, Issue : XII, December - 2014

Musculoskeletal disorders in Brick kiln workers: Incidence and effectiveness of workers education program

Dr. Vijay V. Nemade

Abstract :

Background: Brick kiln is one of the universally spread small scale industry in India Because of the heavy manual labor they are more prone to develop musculoskeletal disorders such as low back pain, neck pain, knee pain, shoulder pain hand and foot pain. This study is an attempt to know the incidence of musculoskeletal disorders in Brick kiln workers and importance of health education of workers to reduce the incidence of musculoskeletal disorders. Methods: 159 Brick kiln workers aged between 20 and 60 years were included in the present study. Their through clinical examination was done according to the format of medical examination specially prepared. Treatment was given to the workers having musculoskeletal disorders and at the same time workers were educated regarding compulsory use of personal protective measures such as safety shoes, hand gloves and also regarding importance of correct posture while working. During follow up visit after 3 months incidence of musculoskeletal disorders were reduced by 55%. Results: Descriptive analysis of data reveals that a total of 27% of the workers suffered low back pain 8% workers reported knee pain, 6% workers experienced shoulder pain 14% of the workers experienced neck pain and 10 % had hand and foot pain. Health education and training of workers helped to reduce the incidence of musculoskeletal disorders and during follow up visit after 3 months incidence of musculoskeletal disorders was reduced by 55% and 89% of the workers were following measures to reduce development of musculoskeletal disorders. Summary: Finding of the present study shows that the incidence of musculoskeletal disorders in Brick kiln workers is very high. Health education and training of workers helped to reduce the incidence of musculoskeletal disorders.