Prevalence of lower back pain among workers in a Bloemfontein welding company

Abstract

Lower back pain (LBP) is a common health problem that has been identified as one of the most costly occupational disorders worldwide. Workers in welding factories are at high risk of acquiring LBP due to the physical demands of the work they perform. Objective: This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of LBP and associated risk factors among workers in a welding company in South Africa. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional survey was carried out using a self-administered questionnaire. Of the 124 eligible participants, 88 completed and returned the questionnaires. Participants were assigned to two groups, viz. those with and those without lower back pain. Results: Fifty-three participants (60.2%) had LBP. More males had LBP than females (p = 0.003). The prevalence of LBP was significantly higher among welders and fitters than office workers, viz. 69.0% and 43.3%, respectively; p = 0.019. A statistically significant proportion of participants had LBP and sleep disturbances, or LBP and headache (p<0.05). Conclusion: Most study participants suffered from LBP which was associated with work-related factors and medical disorders. Issues that could be incorporated into a LBP preventive programme include regular exercise, reduced physical workload and provision of medical care for affected workers. There is a need for implementation and monitoring of occupational health and safety interventions in the workplace to prevent LBP.