Volume 22, Issue 2 (7-2026)
J Health Syst Res 2026, 22(2): 329-337 |
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Research code: 401000023
Ethics code: IR.SIRUMS.REC.1401.019
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Zare A, Shojaeifar M, Masoudi M R, Malakoutikhah M. Participatory Ergonomics-Based Intervention to Improve Musculoskeletal Condition in Mining Machinery Operators. J Health Syst Res 2026; 22 (2) :329-337
URL: http://hsr.mui.ac.ir/article-1-2091-en.html
URL: http://hsr.mui.ac.ir/article-1-2091-en.html
1- Assistant Professor, Department of Occupational Health and Safety Engineering, Sirjan School of Medical Sciences, Sirjan, Iran
2- Department of Occupational Health and Safety Engineering, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
3- Assistant Professor, Department of Clinical Sciences, Sirjan School of Medical Sciences, Sirjan, Iran
4- Assistant Professor, Department of Occupational Health and Safety Engineering, School of Health, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
2- Department of Occupational Health and Safety Engineering, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
3- Assistant Professor, Department of Clinical Sciences, Sirjan School of Medical Sciences, Sirjan, Iran
4- Assistant Professor, Department of Occupational Health and Safety Engineering, School of Health, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
Abstract: (27 Views)
Background: This study aimed to identify ergonomic risk factors and implement participatory ergonomic interventions to reduce musculoskeletal disorders in mining machinery operators.
Methods: This intervention study was conducted on 90 male operators in a mining company in Sirjan City, Iran. Data were collected using a demographic questionnaire and the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ). Then, a participatory ergonomics approach was used to identify problems and implement corrective strategies. Ergonomic assessments were performed before and after the intervention in two positions: sitting and climbing the machinery ladder using the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) method via 3DSSPP software.
Findings: The overall prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders was 79%, and the most common areas involved were the back (60%), neck (44%), and knees (38%). Following the interventions, the prevalence of disorders decreased to 51% and 37% after one and six months, respectively. The RULA score before the intervention was 4 or higher for 80% of the operators, which decreased to 38% after one month and to 12% after 6 months; for half of the operators, the score decreased to 2. The results of the 3DSSPP analysis showed that the interventions had no significant effect on reducing the compressive force of the L5/S1 intervertebral disc (P = 0.12).
Conclusion: Participatory ergonomics is an effective approach to reduce musculoskeletal disorders in dump truck operators. Modifying the seat and cabin space, improving accessibility, and implementing regular training and exercise programs can promote occupational health, reduce fatigue, and improve operators’ productivity.
Methods: This intervention study was conducted on 90 male operators in a mining company in Sirjan City, Iran. Data were collected using a demographic questionnaire and the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ). Then, a participatory ergonomics approach was used to identify problems and implement corrective strategies. Ergonomic assessments were performed before and after the intervention in two positions: sitting and climbing the machinery ladder using the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) method via 3DSSPP software.
Findings: The overall prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders was 79%, and the most common areas involved were the back (60%), neck (44%), and knees (38%). Following the interventions, the prevalence of disorders decreased to 51% and 37% after one and six months, respectively. The RULA score before the intervention was 4 or higher for 80% of the operators, which decreased to 38% after one month and to 12% after 6 months; for half of the operators, the score decreased to 2. The results of the 3DSSPP analysis showed that the interventions had no significant effect on reducing the compressive force of the L5/S1 intervertebral disc (P = 0.12).
Conclusion: Participatory ergonomics is an effective approach to reduce musculoskeletal disorders in dump truck operators. Modifying the seat and cabin space, improving accessibility, and implementing regular training and exercise programs can promote occupational health, reduce fatigue, and improve operators’ productivity.
Type of Study: Research |
Subject:
Occupational health engineering and occupational safety
Received: 2025/06/23 | Accepted: 2025/12/15 | Published: 2026/07/6
Received: 2025/06/23 | Accepted: 2025/12/15 | Published: 2026/07/6
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