Work-related discomfort among floor-sitting sedge weavers: a cross-sectional survey. Issue 2 (3rd April 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Thongsuk, Wanpen; Geater, Alan F.
• Is Part Of: International journal of occupational safety and ergonomics. Volume 27:Issue 2(2021)
• Page Start: 523
• Page End: 534
• Publication Date: 2021-04-03
• Subjects: discomfort -- sedge weavers -- floor sitting; Human engineering -- Periodicals; Industrial safety -- Periodicals; Human Engineering -- Periodicals; Occupational Health -- Periodicals; Ergonomie -- Périodiques; Sécurité du travail -- Périodiques; Human engineering; Industrial safety; Periodicals; 620.8
• DOI: 10.1080/10803548.2019.1600302
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1080-3548

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose . This cross-sectional survey aimed to evaluate and identify risk factors of work-related discomfort among floor-sitting Thai sedge handicraft weavers. Materials and methods . Sedge weavers ( N = 285) were interviewed face to face using a modified standardized Nordic questionnaire. Data were subjected to weighted analysis and risk factors identified using logistic regression models based on a pre-compiled directed acyclic graph. Results . Most sedge weavers were elderly (65.9% ≥ 50 years) with >20 years' experience. Mats were the most common product. Buttocks (72.7%) and lower back (67.3%) were the commonest regions for discomfort. Neck, shoulders and upper back were less commonly involved (56.9, 56.7 and 52.6% respectively). Higher body mass index and lack of exercise were positively associated with buttock discomfort, and shorter sleep duration, not using a cushion, older age and having dyslipidaemia associated with lower back discomfort. Conclusions . The majority of sedge weavers experienced work-related discomfort. Taking regular exercise, having sufficient sleep and sitting on a cushion may reduce the discomfort experienced by these sedge-weavers.