Abstract

Background: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are among the leading causes of occupational injuries and disabilities in industrialized and developing countries. Objective: This study was aimed at evaluating the ergonomic risk assessment of auto mechanic postural stress due to their working conditions in the city of Kermanshah (Iran) using the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) method. Materials and Methods: This descriptive-analytical study of cross-sectional type was carried out on 99 auto mechanics in the city of Kermanshah (Iran). In order to determine the prevalence of WMSDs and evaluate the risk of developing WMSDs, the Nordic Body Map questionnaires and REBA method were applied. The data were analyzed by SPSS-16 software. Results: The results showed that the highest prevalence of WMSDs was associated with the back (62.6) and waist (64.6). Also, the final obtained score from auto mechanics by the REBA posture assessment method showed that 55.5 are at high and very high risk level. Conclusion: The findings of this study showed that the prevalence of WMSDs in the back and the waist was high. It is, therefore, recommended to improve the working conditions and prevent these disorders by controlling the risk factors related to these areas and removing them from the workplace by taking effective measures. Any prevention programs should focus on risk factors related to these areas.