SELF-ERGONOMIC RISK FACTOR ASSESSMENT (SERFA) AND MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDER HEALTH RISK IN TRANSPORTATION DRIVERS IN PATHUM THANI PROVINCE

Abstract

            This study employed a cross-sectional survey research design to assess ergonomic risks among 41 truck drivers from a logistics company in Pathum Thani Province. The study aimed to evaluate ergonomic risk, mental workload, and musculoskeletal discomfort among these drivers. Data collection instruments included a personal information questionnaire, the Self Ergonomic Risk Factor Assessment (SERFA), and the Musculoskeletal Severity and Frequency Questionnaire (MSFQ). The SERFA and MSFQ results were integrated into a matrix to assess the risk of musculoskeletal disorders, considering both probability (ergonomic risk level) and severity (perceived discomfort level). Additionally, the Subjective Workload Index (SWI) was used to evaluate mental workload. The study findings indicate that the majority of the drivers were male, had over 10 years of driving experience, and worked more than 8 hours per day. Over the past month, a significant portion of the drivers reported moderate to high levels of overall physical discomfort, with the lower back being the most frequently reported area (48.78%), followed by the calves (34.15%), feet and ankles (31.71%), and neck. The SERFA results revealed that most drivers (70.73%) were in the very high ergonomic risk category, with the remaining (29.27%) in the high-risk category. Specifically, the neck (51.22%) and trunk (51.22%) exhibited the highest risk levels. Overall health risk was also found to be very high for the majority of drivers. Regarding workload-related stress, most drivers (60.00%) experienced moderate stress levels. The findings collectively suggest that these truck drivers are facing high levels of ergonomic risk and stress. This highlights the critical need for proactive management and appropriate preventative measures to mitigate long-term physical and mental health issues within this occupational group.