Prevalence of ergonomic hazards and persistent work-related musculoskeletal pain among textile sewing machine operators

Background: Textile sewing machine operators are exposed to hazards and pain that accumulate over time. The objective of this study, therefore, was to assess the health and safety hazards, and persistent pain among textile sewing machine operators. Methods: The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional design in which 287 operators were recruited. Data were collected using questionnaire, observational checklist and analysed using descriptive statistics and Chi square test at 5% significance level. Results: The overall prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal pain (WRMP) in a. the last 12 months and b. The last 7 days were 92% and 58% respectively. Low back pain incidence was 71.1%. There was a significant association between age and WRMP in the last 12 months (p = 0.018) and 7 days (p = 0.048). There was also a significant association between years of working experience and WRMP (p = 0.023) in the last 12 months. Gender (p = 0.001) and types of seats (specifically stools (p = 0.002) and stools with cushions (p = 0.005)) were significantly associated with work-related musculoskeletal pain in the last 7 days. Conclusion: Physical and ergonomic hazards were identified to be more associated with the sewing machine operators than any other hazard. Proper awareness and education should therefore be given to the textile sewing machine operators on safe practices to minimize hazards and persistent pain associated with their routine operations that could lead to temporary or permanent health damages. © 2021 Elsevier Ltd