Risk Factors of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders among Airport Baggage Handlers : A Systematic Review

Abstract

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are a significant health problem among airport baggage handlers. A systematic review of the prevalence and risk factors of WMSDs among airport baggage handlers is lacking. This study aimed to systematically review the existing literature that presents estimates for WMSD prevalence and risk factors among airport baggage handlers. Methods: The systematic review was carried out on PubMed, EMBASE, CHINAIL, Scopus, Google Scholar, Thai Journal Online, and ThaiLIS. The search will include journal articles written in English and Thai from the above-specified databases from 2012 to the present. Studies were included if they met the inclusion criteria which investigated the prevalence and risk factors associated with WMSDs. The studies were qualitatively assessed using the JBI quality appraisal tool. Results: The literature search yield 45 records through electronic databases and additional records identified through other sources 23 records, although only 7 English studies passed the inclusion criteria. Four of the studies were cohort studies, and three were cross-sectional. The lower back was the most frequently reported specific injured body part, with an estimated WMSD prevalence range between 32.6-70%. The risk factors can be classified into four groups. The risk factors can be classified into four groups. The individual factors include smoking, seniority, and age. The biomechanical factors, such as awkward working postures, heavy lifting, and turning around frequently. The psychosocial factors include interpersonal relations and negative opinions of the work. Organization factors include time pressure and work task duration. Conclusions: To prevent WMSDs among airport baggage handlers, the risk factors of individual, biomechanical, psychosocial, and organization should be understood.