Association of Exposure to a Combination of Ergonomic Risk Factors with Musculoskeletal Symptoms in Korean Workers

This study examined the relationship of musculoskeletal symptoms with exposure to a combination of ergonomic risk factors at work and the possible ameliorating effect of enough time to rest during working hours or between consecutive shifts in Korean workers. Data were from the 2017 Korean Working Conditions Survey. Workers exposed to ergonomic risk factors were more likely to report musculoskeletal symptoms than those without exposure, and exposure to more ergonomic risk factors increased the probability of musculoskeletal symptoms. Workers who had the opportunity to rest when desired and those who had enough time to rest between consecutive shifts were less likely to report musculoskeletal symptoms. In conclusion, workers exposed to more ergonomic risk factors had an increased risk for musculoskeletal symptoms, and providing enough time to rest and recovery to workers reduced the risk of musculoskeletal symptoms.