Work Related Musculoskeletal Disorder and Stress among Online Delivery Personnel in Chennai -A Cross-Sectional Study

Devadharshini S; Lavanya M; Logaraj M; Anantharaman VV; Aamina Hussain

doi:10.55489/njcm.170220265940

Authors

Devadharshini S Department of Community Medicine, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, SRMIST, Chengalpattu, India
Lavanya M Department of Community Medicine, Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education, Kelambakkam, India
Logaraj M Department of Community Medicine, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, SRMIST, Chengalpattu, India
Anantharaman VV Department of Community Medicine, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, SRMIST, Chengalpattu, India
Aamina Hussain Department of Community Medicine, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, SRMIST, Chengalpattu, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55489/njcm.170220265940

Keywords:

WRMSDs, Stress, Gig-workers, Ergonomics, Chennai

Abstract

Background: Delivery personnel frequently work long hours under time pressure and irregular schedules, increasing their vulnerability to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) and workplace stress. This study evaluated the frequency and determinants of WRMSDs and occupational stress among delivery personnel in Chennai.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out with 200 delivery workers who were selected using snowball sampling. Structured interviews were used to gather information. WRMSDs were assessed using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire and workplace stress using the Workplace Stress Scale (score >20 indicating high stress). Logistic regression and chi-square tests were analysed.

Results: WRMSDs were reported by 54% of participants, predominantly involving the lower back and workplace stress was identified in 46%. Significant predictors of workplace stress included full-time employment (AOR: 3.88; 95%CI: 1.66-9.05), working >8 hours/day (AOR: 3.52; 95%CI: 1.41-8.76), and sleeping <6 hours (AOR: 3.99; 95%CI: 2.04-7.79). WRMSDs were associated with low-income (AOR: 2.86; 95%CI: 1.16-7.05), inadequate sleep (AOR: 7.29; 95%CI: 3.57-14.88), and <2 years of experience (AOR: 0.46 95%CI: 0.22-0.96).

Conclusion: Delivery personnel face considerable WRMSDs and workplace stress, influenced mainly by long work hours and inadequate rest.

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