PROPER BODY MECHANICS EXECUTION AMONG VEGETABLE PORTERS IN LA TRINIDAD, BENGUET

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to determine the execution of proper body mechanics (PBM) in lifting among vegetable porters. It likewise aims to determine the relationship between the average load that the porters lifted and their performance of the proper techniques involved in lifting. Methods: The study utilized an exploratory mixed approach under qualitative-quantitative design. This study utilized a researcher-made checklist with contents based on Philippine Occupational Safety and Health Standards (OSHS). There were 10 vegetable porters selected and observed through ocular and video recording while lifting during their work routine. The data was analyzed using mode analysis and spearman two-tailed coefficient. Results: Findings revealed that vegetable porters are lifting less than 20kg of load which is compliant with the OSHS guidelines. In terms of the PBM execution the porters failed to use the leg muscles and stand slowly while keeping back straight while lifting. In addition, only 30% of the respondents do not twist the trunk and keep their head up and straight with the shoulders back in line with the hips as they move. This finding suggests that PBM in lifting was not executed by the porters. The spearman twotailed coefficient was used to correlate data where results revealed that there is a negative moderate correlation between weight load and lifting techniques(T) of vegetable porters [p (28) = - 0.327, p=0.078]. Discussion: This study reveals that most of the participants did not execute proper body mechanics during lifting. Findings suggest that they are at risk for acquiring musculoskeletal disorders such as low back pain therefore they would need to be educated on PBM execution to be able to perform effective lifting to their work to prevent muscle pain, aches and injuries. Significance: Proper body mechanics in lifting execution provides a way to reduce injuries during intense labor especially in the sector of porters. It allows medical practitioners to have an overview of execution of proper body mechanics in lifting. Through the study the community will then be knowledgeable avoiding instances that can lead to accidents and porters will be more productive in their work.