ERGONOMICS RISK ASSESSMENT AND MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS AMONG TRACTOR USERS IN AGRICULTURAL ACTIVITIES: A CASE STUDY IN WAENG SUBDISTRICT, PHON THONG DISTRICT, ROI ET PROVINCE

Abstract

          This study aimed to evaluate the ergonomic risk and musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among tractor users in agricultural activities. A total of 30 tractor users in Waeng Subdistrict, Phon Thong District, Roi Et Province, Thailand were recruited. Data were collected using the self- assessment Musculoskeletal Disorders Severity and Frequency Questionnaire (MSFQ) and the Self Ergonomics Risk Factor Assessment (SERFA). A risk matrix was applied to assess the risk of developing MSDs based on the likelihood (ergonomic risk level) and severity (perception of discomfort level). The results indicated that agricultural tractor users experienced the highest levels of discomfort in the neck, shoulders, lower back, knees, calves, feet, and ankles. The SERFA revealed that the majority of participants had moderate ergonomic risk levels in the upper and lower limbs, followed by high risk levels. The study indicated that the tractors’ seat was generally not suitable for their body anthropometric parameters. The risk matrix assessment showed that the low risk of neck discomfort was in level 1 (68.75%), of upper limb discomfort at level 1 (80.00%) and the risk of trunk discomfort was in medium risk (level 2) for 50.00%, The study identified factors associated with MSDs, including the number of years had tractor ownership, the quantity of agricultural areas significantly (p<0.05). Additionally, ergonomic factors significantly associated with the risk of MSDs included trunk posture and lower limb posture at p-<0.05. These finding factors are useful for further investigation on prevention of MSDs among farmers.