Ergonomic Risk and Musculoskeletal Characteristics in Industrial Workers

A Cross-Sectional Comparative Study Of Ergonomic Risk And Musculoskeletal Characteristics İn Blue- And White-Collar Workers İn An Industrial Setting

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are among the most common occupational health problems and are closely associated with ergonomic risk factors in the workplace. Different occupational roles expose workers to distinct biomechanical and postural demands, which may influence musculoskeletal health in different ways. Field-based (blue-collar) work is typically characterized by physical workload and repetitive movements, whereas office-based (white-collar) work mainly involves prolonged sitting and static postures.

This cross-sectional comparative study aims to evaluate and compare musculoskeletal characteristics and ergonomic risk levels between blue-collar and white-collar workers employed in the same industrial setting. Full-time employees aged 18-65 years who have been working in the same factory for at least two years are included.

Outcomes include muscle strength, joint range of motion, ergonomic risk assessed using the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA), musculoskeletal complaints, body awareness, health-related quality of life, and anxiety levels. Objective measurements and validated self-report questionnaires are used.

Following baseline assessment, individualized ergonomic and exercise-based recommendations are provided as part of a workplace health promotion approach. Participant satisfaction and perceived ergonomic awareness are descriptively evaluated after eight weeks. The findings aim to support occupation-specific ergonomic risk assessment and preventive strategies in industrial work environments.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Aged between 18 and 65 years
• Employed in the same factory for at least two consecutive years
• Actively working in either field-based (blue-collar) or office-based (white-collar) positions
• Full-time employment status
• Maintained the current job position for at least one year prior to assessment
• Willingness to participate and provision of written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria

• Presence of a diagnosed cardiovascular condition contraindicating physical activity
• Orthopedic surgery within the previous 12 months
• Presence of a neurological disorder affecting motor performance
• Acute musculoskeletal injury within the previous 3 months
• Currently receiving structured physiotherapy or rehabilitation for musculoskeletal conditions
• Pregnancy at the time of assessment