MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDER AMONG WORKERS IN MISURATA STEEL FACTORY

Abstract

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) have emerged as a leading cause of occupational illness and disability in developing nations, intricately linked to socioeconomic factors impacting individuals, organizations, and communities. Recent observations highlight an increasing prevalence of musculoskeletal issues across diverse populations, prompting calls from medical policymakers and experts for comprehensive national prevention strategies tailored to MSDs. The steel industry, particularly in emerging economies like Libya, has gained prominence. Workers in this sector frequently engage in manual material handling and adopt awkward postures, significantly increasing their risk for MSDs. Despite extensive research on MSD prevalence among specific worker cohorts, comprehensive data regarding the broader working population remains limited, beyond common conditions like back and shoulder pain, which severely impair work capability. This study investigates the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among steelworkers at the Misurata Steel Factory. It identifies the most prevalent types of MSDs affecting specific body regions—shoulders, upper extremities, back, and lower extremities. Additionally, it evaluates the risk factors associated with work-related MSDs and explores potential treatment options for effective management.