Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) among fish landing workers: prevalence, risks, and controls

Ruslan, Siti Nur Liyana and Md Mustafa, Md Muziman Syah and Shamsudin, Mohd Zubairy and Zamli, Zaitunnatakhin (2026) Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) among fish landing workers: prevalence, risks, and controls. Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, 22 (SUPP8). pp. 14-21. ISSN 1675-8544 E-ISSN 2636-9346

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Abstract

Introduction: Fish packing is a labour-intensive, high-risk occupation characterised by fast-paced, heavy work that predisposes workers to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). Although sustainable packaging has gained attention for reducing environmental impact, the associated ergonomic challenges for workers remain insufficiently addressed. Hence, this study aimed to assess the prevalence of WMSDs, ergonomic risk factors, and adherence to control measures among these workers. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 190 workers at a fish landing complex in Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia. Questionnaires were administered, supplemented by contextual interviews and observational data. WMSDs were assessed using the Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ), and ergonomic risks were evaluated with the modified Initial Ergonomic Risk Assessment (ERA) Checklist. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and Spearman’s rank correlation in SPSS version 29.0. Results: The majority of workers (75.8%) reported mild WMSDs, especially at the lower back (66.8%), likely due to repetitive motions, forceful exertions, and awkward postures. Although 84.7% of workers reported moderate adherence to existing controls, a weak, significant correlation between ergonomic control measures (ECMs) and WMSDs was observed (ρ = 0.160, p = 0.027), suggesting their ineffectiveness. WMSDs were also significantly associated with older age, lower income satisfaction, more work experience, and longer daily working hours (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusion: These findings highlight the need for integrated, evidence-based ergonomic interventions. Collaborative efforts among authorities, employers, and workers are essential for enhancing occupational safety and health in this industry. Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences (2026) 22(s8):14-21.doi:10.47836/mjmhs.22.s8.3

Item Type:	Article (Journal)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Musculoskeletal disorders, Risk factors, Ergonomic interventions, Manual packing, Fish landing
Subjects:	R Medicine > R Medicine (General)
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Kulliyyah of Allied Health Sciences > Department of Biomedical Science (Effective:1st July 2011) Kulliyyah of Allied Health Sciences
Depositing User:	Zaitunnatakhin Zamli
Date Deposited:	28 Sep 2026 11:53
Last Update:	28 Sep 2026 11:53
Queue Number:	2026-09-Q5276
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/131518
Indexed In:	Google Scholar, MyCite

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