A Study of Prolonged Standing And Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorder Among Cashier At Hypermarket / Rukiah Chandra

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) were recognized as having occupational etiologic factors as early as the beginning of the 18th century. Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMDs) are increasingly prevalent in the Malaysian workforce. Canadian Center for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) in 2005 claims that WMSDs are known as leading causes of significant human suffering, loss of productivity, and economic burdens on society. Objectives of this study were to determine time (hours) of standing among cashiers, to classify the musculoskeletal disorder among cashiers and to identify association between prolonged standing and musculoskeletal disorder among cashiers. A cross sectional study was conducted to see the prevalence of MSDs among standing cashiers. The questionnaire was edited from previously used and validated questions including the Standardized Nordic Questionnaire for the Analysis of Musculoskeletal Symptoms (Kuorinka et al, 1987) and the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) (McAtamney & Corlett, 2004) were distributed to respondents participated (n=60). Significant difference (p = 0.001) of mean of time (hours) between standing and sitting cashiers were recorded. However, risk is not significantly associated with pf0Ionged standing (p=0.417) among standing cashiers. Significant association of prolonged standing and MSD in last 12 months at low back p=0.035, ankle p=0.001 and knees p=0.003. As conclusion, advance hazard analysis and administrative control are recommended to reduce the risk faced by cashier while perform their job.