Prevalence and associated risk factors of musculoskeletal disorders in flight baggage handlers at an international airport in South Africa

Abstract

Background: Flight baggage handlers are prone to musculoskeletal disorders, due to the nature of their work that involves repetitive motion at certain joints, which over time, results in injury. Aim: The aim of the study was to examined the prevalence and associated risk factors of musculoskeletal disorders in flight baggage handlers at an international airport in South Africa. Methods: The study was a quantitative, cross-sectional, descriptive and correlation design. The study used convenient sampling of 100 female and male flight baggage handlers, aged 18 to 65 years, from one international airport in South Africa. A researcher-generated questionnaire was used to collect sociodemographic information, such as age, gender, marital status, and race. Anthropometric measurements were recorded, including stature, body mass, and waist and hip circumferences using standard equipment and procedures. The previously validated Dell’s questionnaire for baggage handlers was used to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors of musculoskeletal disorders among flight baggage handlers.