RULA

Background: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) impose a heavy burden on individuals, organizations, and governments.Aim: The purpose of this study was to provide information about WMSDs and working posture. This information can be helpful in designing preventive programs.Materials and Methods: The present study is a descriptive-analytical study. 207 subjects participated in this study. For WMSDs investigation and postural assessment during work, Nordic Questionnaire and Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) method were used, respectively. Gathered data from research variables measurement analyzed using Chi-square test and descriptive statistics. A p value of equal or less than 0.05 took into account to be statistically significant.Results: The most prevalent work–related musculoskeletal disorder was found in lower back region, the percentage for large, medium and small ships staff was 58%, 61.7% and 45.1%, respectively. A significant relationship was found between WMSDs in neck (P=0.001), hands and wrists (P=0.02), back (P=0.04) and knees (P=0.001) and used ship by staff. A higher proportion of level four corrective action, was found in small ship staff.Conclusion: WMSDs are prevalent among staff of all ships. WMSDs are more prevalent in lower back. Also, immediate change in posture and investigation is more necessary in small ship staff.