Impact of Physical and Psychological Strain on Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders: A Cross-Sectional Study in the Construction Industry

• Published in: Inquiry (Chicago) 2025-01, Vol.62, p.469580251315348
• Main Authors: Kadir, Abdul, Sunindijo, Riza Yosia, Widanarko, Baiduri, Erwandi, Dadan, Nasri, Sjahrul M, Satrya, Bangga Agung, Sunarno, Stevan Deby Anbiya Muhamad, Atmajaya, Hardy, Yuniar, Popy, Yuantoko, Tubagus Dwika, Qomariyah, Lailatul, Maharani, Cynthia Febrina
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Adult; Construction Industry; Cross-Sectional Studies; Female; Humans; Indonesia - epidemiology; Male; Middle Aged; Musculoskeletal Diseases - epidemiology; Musculoskeletal Diseases - psychology; Occupational Diseases - epidemiology; Occupational Diseases - psychology; Prevalence; Risk Factors; Stress, Psychological - epidemiology; Surveys and Questionnaires; Workload - psychology; Workplace - psychology
• ISSN: 0046-9580; 1945-7243; 1945-7243
• DOI: 10.1177/00469580251315348

This study examined the interplay between physical workload, psychological stress, and the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) among construction workers in Indonesia. This cross-sectional study used a purposive sampling technique to gather quantitative data from 409 respondents working in four construction companies through structured questionnaires. Data collection tools included the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire III (COPSOQ III), the K10 scale for psychosocial distress, and the Nordic Body Map for musculoskeletal symptoms. Independent variables encompassed demographic factors, physical work environment, and psychosocial aspects, while the dependent variable was the presence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) symptoms over the past 7 days and 12 months. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression analyses were performed using IBM SPSS Statistics Grad Pack 29.0 PREMIUM. The study revealed a high prevalence of WMSDs among workers, with 36.2% reporting symptoms in the past 7 days and 31.5% in the past 12 months. These symptoms primarily affected the neck, shoulders, back, and waist. Both physical and psychosocial factors were found to the risk, with high levels of somatic stress and sleep disorders significantly increasing the likelihood of WMSDs. Psychological distress emerged as a particularly strong predictor to these disorders. The findings underscore the importance of implementing targeted interventions and safety policies to mitigate WMSDs risks and improve occupational health within the construction industry.