ASSESSMENT OF ERGONOMIC RISK AND MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS AMONGOFFICE WORKERS IN THE RIVERS STATE CIVIL SERVICE

Abstract

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are a significant occupational health concern, particularly among office workers exposed to prolonged sedentary tasks and suboptimal ergonomic conditions. This study assessed the relationship between ergonomic risk factors and the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among office workers in the Rivers State Civil Service. The study adopted a correlational survey design and collected data from 217 office workers selected through proportional sampling across various departments. Data were gathered using a structured questionnaire, which was validated for content and reliability (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.82). Descriptive statistics, including percentages, were used to summarize respondents’ demographic characteristics, ergonomic risk exposure, and prevalence of MSDs. Additionally, Pearson Product Moment Correlation was employed to test the hypotheses regarding the relationship between ergonomic risk factors and musculoskeletal disorders. The findings revealed that the most common ergonomic risk factors included prolonged sitting, awkward postures, poor chair support, repetitive keyboard and mouse use, and inadequate workstation design. The prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders was notably high, with lower back pain (50.7%), neck pain (43.8%), and shoulder pain (39.2%) being the most reported conditions. A positive and significant relationship was established between ergonomic risk factors and MSDs, indicating that increased exposure to poor ergonomic conditions correlates with higher incidence of musculoskeletal disorders. Furthermore, demographic variables such as age, years of service, and department were found to influence the level of risk and prevalence of MSDs. Based on these findings, the study concludes that ergonomic hazards are prevalent in the Rivers State Civil Service and significantly contribute to musculoskeletal disorders among office workers. The study recommends interventions including ergonomic training, workstation redesign, scheduled breaks, department-specific ergonomic assessments, regular health monitoring, and policy implementation to reduce risk and improve employee well-being and productivity