P-609 Risk Factors of Multisite Musculoskeletal Symptoms in a Shoe and Leather Factory

Introduction Work in the leather and footwear sector exposes workers to multiple biomechanical constraints known to be risk factors for musculoskeletal symptoms (MS). These latter affect generally more than one body region leading to talk about multisite MS (MMS). Methods We conducted a cross-sectional and exhaustive study among 337 workers in a shoe and leather factory over a period of one year. Data collection was performed through Computer Assisted Mobile Interview (CAMI) technology. We used a structured questionnaire which consisted of demographic questions, the Modified Nordic for MS assessment, Quick Exposure Check (QEC) method for ergonomic assessment and Job Content Questionnaire for the assessment of psychosocial environment at work. Variables associated with the number of symptomatic sites were derived from multiple linear regression using R software. Results Of all the participants (337), 310 employees had MMS and were thus covered by the present study. Respondents’ mean age was 34.02 years (SD = 10.25). QEC assessment showed that MS risk level exposure was high among 77.2% of the study population. In multivariate analysis, MMS were associated with professional seniority, body mass index, sewing machine operators, high psychological demand, exposure to heat, perceived stress and intensive cadence at the workplace. Discussion MMS are recurrent in the leather and footwear sector. Different risk factors were incriminated in their occurrence and included individual and professional factors. The latter have been found to be strongly associated with these disorders. Conclusion MMS are multifactorial pathologies requiring the implementation of an effective preventive strategy along with ergonomic awareness and health promotion.