A study on the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among ageing workforce of Indian construction industry

Abstract

Ageing work force is one of the leading causes behind the reduction in the rate of growth of the labour force in construction industries. Construction industry is a major source of employment worldwide after agriculture, and generally the primary one in urban areas. Manual material handling in construction industries causes musculoskeletal disorders affecting both upper and lower extremities of the body. Studies on lower limb problems due to dynamic work like handling of heavy loads in construction industries are scanty. To analyze the level of exertion, ergonomics risk factors and the prevalence of work-related lower limb disorders among the young and elderly construction workforce. 20 male construction workers in the age group of i) 20 to 30 years (golden age group); ii) 50 years and above were selected from a local construction site in Mumbai. Demographic data like age, height, weight, BMI, body fat, waist hip ratio and risk assessment by questionnaires study comprising QEC, NMQ, VAS, and LEFS were collected. Compared to the golden age group, the elderly subjects were found to feel uncomfortable to their lower back, knee and calf due to the immoderate forces and motions applied to their lower limbs during their daily work. Muscle pliability and proper coordination diminishes with age and it is appearing to be the most probable reason behind the pain experienced in their lower limbs might be due to improper techniques and postures. For elderly workers, age related limitations become an additional factor to maintain their normal work life.