title: Participatory ergonomics intervention for improving work-related musculoskeletal disorders in the 'One Tambon One Product' industry in Thailand.
abstract: This paper relates to the first phase one of a three-phase study. Phase 1 investigated and identified risk factors for work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) in 26 'One Tambon One Product' (OTOP) groups working in the informal sector. Data was collected from 93 participants in Khangkoi District, Saraburi Province, Thailand during 2009-2010. Results of inspections and direct observations of work places and interviews of managers and workers showed risk factors related to posture, repetition, force and duration in the workers' operations and the application of a checklist revealed that the OTOP groups had simple work processes. A knowledge-attitude-practice survey of managers and workers indicated that there was a moderate to high awareness regarding ergonomics and occupational safety and health principles and approximately 15% of workers reported WMSDs at a moderate level, mainly associated with lower back and shoulder pains, due to protracted periods of sitting. Specific recommendations in response to OTOP conditions and needs were made. The second phase of the study involves a participatory ergonomics worksite intervention by a number of stakeholders and the final phase deals with an evaluation of the intervention and an establishment of guidelines for ergonomics programs for OTOP groups.
authors: College of Public Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand. arbeit_3@hotmail.com
authors: Prathurng
authors: P
authors: Hongsranagon
authors: Yaowanit
authors: Y
authors: Somana
authors: Somkiet
authors: S
authors: Maha-Udomporn
authors: Wattasit
authors: W
authors: Siriwong
authors: Piyalamporn
authors: P
authors: Havanond
authors: Nathawan
authors: N
authors: Deelertyuenyong
authors: Viroj
authors: V
authors: Petchprasit
authors: Nantawadee
authors: N
authors: Munkatunyu
authors: Pramrudee
authors: P
authors: Saksri
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D057189:Checklist; D055812:Community-Based Participatory Research / Q000379:methods*; D003906:Developing Countries; D006804:Ergonomics / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007221:Industry; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009140:Musculoskeletal Diseases / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D016272:Occupational Health; D012307:Risk Factors; D013785:Thailand