The Effectiveness of a New Climbing Device on Working Postures, Musculoskeletal Symptoms, and Fatigue in Date Palm Farmers

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background Musculoskeletal disorders are one of the main health problems found in date palm farmers. This study aimed to assess a new climbing device on working postures, musculoskeletal symptoms, and fatigue in date palm farmers. Methods Data were collected using questionnaires (Standardised Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory, and System Usability Scale) and direct observations of the postures (using the Rapid Entire Body Assessment method [REBA]) from 70 date palm farmers during operating the traditional and new climbing devices. Results The new climbing device showed significant improvement in working postures (in the knee, legs/ankles, and shoulders). In all tasks, the REBA grand score significantly decreased after using the new climbing device (P ≤ 0.05). Significant differences were found in the severity of complaints ratings, particularly in the knee, legs/ankles, and low back areas, during performance tasks using the traditional and new climbing devices. Also, significant differences were found between the scores of physical and mental fatigue during use of the traditional and new climbing devices(P ≤ 0.05). Conclusion The findings indicate the effectiveness of the new climbing device as a low-cost, simple, and easy-to-use device that improves working postures and reduces musculoskeletal discomfort in date palm farmers.