Ergonomic Risk Evaluation and Development of Musculoskeletic Disorders in Equatorian Health Workers

Abstract

Introduction: Ergonomic risks are associated with working conditions related to postures, movements, and the physical environment. To assess the level of ergonomic risks for health professionals in a type C dispensary in Latacunga, Ecuador.

Methods: Based on the analysis of 91 employees of the preferred health center, with observation and records of working conditions on existing ergonomic risks, using a standardized Nordic questionnaire of perception of skeletal muscle symptoms, the REBA method is used to assess the degree of exposure of the worker to the risk of adopting inappropriate postures.

Results: Skeletal muscle symptomatology was identified at the level of the neck, shoulders, lower back, and knees; such findings have a higher proportion and a higher level of risk in the areas of physiotherapy, dentistry, and admission.

Conclusion: Due to the nature of the specialties and the high level of ergonomic risk, it is concluded that the viable alternative solution consists of rest and active breaks in the activities carried out with the implementation of preventive measures. However, due to the nature of the unchecked role, rotation of tasks to reduce such risks cannot be carried out for the therapist, dentist, and administrative staff in charge of the admission service of the Latacunga-Ecuador C-type health center.