Prevalence and risk factors for musculoskeletal symptoms with computer based work across occupations

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to compare the 12-month prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms and risk factors associated with computer-based work between occupations in a sample of Australian public sector employees. Method: A cross-sectional study was completed with employees of 6 government departments. An online survey was electronically distributed to over 8,000 employees characterised by a range of occupational groups and levels of employment. Data collected included individual and employment characteristics, estimation of hours worked with a computer per day and self-reported musculoskeletal symptoms in the upper extremity and spinal areas using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. Results: Responses from 934 completed surveys could be used. There was no significant difference in the prevalence of reported musculoskeletal symptoms between occupational groups except for the wrist/hand and elbow areas. Estimated duration of computer work per day was significantly associated with increased musculoskeletal symptoms in the neck (OR 1.41, 95% CI: 1.09 to 1.83), wrist/hand/s (OR 1.46, 95% CI: 1.17 to 1.83) and elbow/s (OR 1.41, 95% CI: 1.07 to 1.85) areas, with the finding of a linear relationship between hours worked and prevalence of symptoms. A greater proportion of employees in higher level management and professional occupational groups were found to be working with a computer in excess of 6 to 8 hours per day compared with those in non-professional (administration and secretarial) groups. Conclusion: Hours worked with a computer per day was a significant risk factor for reported musculoskeletal symptoms amongst all occupational groups working in Australian public sector offices. No significant difference in the level of risk was found between occupations.