Browsing by Author "Teopolina Nakwiila Nashongo"

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    Assessing Risk Factors and Awareness of Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Operator Drivers in North-Western Namibia.
    (Namibia University of Science and Technology, 2020-10) Teopolina Nakwiila Nashongo
    Background Operator drivers are responsible for driving trackless heavy-duty mining or construction vehicles such as graders, dumpers, loaders, and bulldozers. There are increased rates of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among operator drivers due to the nature of their work, however, there is paucity of data on MSDs and associated factors among operator drivers in Namibia. Objective This study aimed at assessing the risk factors and awareness of MSDs among operator drivers in the construction and mining industry in Namibia. Methods The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional mixed methods study. A total of 182 questionnaires were administered to operator drivers while 13 managerial staff were interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide. Quantitative data were analysed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 25 and qualitative data were analysed thematically with the aid of Atlas.ti version 8. Results The study results revealed that factors associated with MSDs were length of service for > 10 years (OR=15.3, 95% CI: 6.0-39.0), alcohol consumption (OR=2.8, 95% CI: 1.1-6.7), lack of physical fitness activity (OR=8.8, 95% CI: 3.8-20.4), and lack of awareness of MSDs (OR=3.1, 95% CI: 1.3-7.3). Furthermore, semi-structured interviews also revealed that 80% of the managerial staff were not aware of MSDs. Conclusion The study findings revealed major health issues that are associated with MSDs among the operator drivers, impacting their general wellness and productivity. Monitoring of wellness of these workers by the companies is highly recommended. There is need to increase MSD awareness, PPE usage, ergonomics skills training, and physical fitness exercises for operator drivers. Employers are urged to adopt policies, and to design guidelines and interventions aimed at promoting occupational health and safety in this population.