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Background <p>Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are a significant public health challenge, causing disability and economic costs, particularly in unorganized sectors. This study evaluates the prevalence and assesses the occupational and non-occupational risk factors of MSDs among the workers in various unorganized industrial sectors.</p> Methods <p>A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with 420 workers from unorganized sectors, including printing, fireworks, matches, and construction in Tamil Nadu. Systematic random sampling was employed, including participants aged 19–60 with at least 1&#xa0;year of experience. The data were collected through a validated questionnaire, assessing demographics, job characteristics, physical and postural workloads, and mental health factors.</p> Results <p>The overall prevalence of MSDs was 41%, with the highest prevalence observed among construction workers (50%). Work experience of more than 15&#xa0;years [OR (95% CI) 1.5 (1.1, 2.2)] and female gender [OR (95% CI) 1.5 (1.03, 2.3)] were significantly associated with higher odds of MSD. Over 90% of the workers reported engagement in repetitive tasks, and more than 60% reported overstraining at work. Use of personal protective equipment was minimal, particularly among workers exposed to adverse environmental conditions.</p> Conclusion <p>The study highlights a critical need for improved workplace conditions and preventive measures to address the high prevalence of MSDs in unorganized sectors. Educational interventions focusing on ergonomics and health promotion are essential to mitigate risks and enhance worker well-being.</p>

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Occupational Hazards and Musculoskeletal Burden: A Cross-Sectional Survey Among the Unorganized Workforce

  • 期刊论文

  • 发表日期：

    2026年3月18日

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  • Johnson WMS,
  • Lavanya Sekhar,
  • Priscilla Johnson

摘要

Background

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are a significant public health challenge, causing disability and economic costs, particularly in unorganized sectors. This study evaluates the prevalence and assesses the occupational and non-occupational risk factors of MSDs among the workers in various unorganized industrial sectors.

Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with 420 workers from unorganized sectors, including printing, fireworks, matches, and construction in Tamil Nadu. Systematic random sampling was employed, including participants aged 19–60 with at least 1 year of experience. The data were collected through a validated questionnaire, assessing demographics, job characteristics, physical and postural workloads, and mental health factors.

Results

The overall prevalence of MSDs was 41%, with the highest prevalence observed among construction workers (50%). Work experience of more than 15 years [OR (95% CI) 1.5 (1.1, 2.2)] and female gender [OR (95% CI) 1.5 (1.03, 2.3)] were significantly associated with higher odds of MSD. Over 90% of the workers reported engagement in repetitive tasks, and more than 60% reported overstraining at work. Use of personal protective equipment was minimal, particularly among workers exposed to adverse environmental conditions.

Conclusion

The study highlights a critical need for improved workplace conditions and preventive measures to address the high prevalence of MSDs in unorganized sectors. Educational interventions focusing on ergonomics and health promotion are essential to mitigate risks and enhance worker well-being.