Musculoskeletal Symptoms and Associated Factors Among Iron Foundry Workers

BACKGROUND: Musculoskeletal symptoms (MSS) are among the most common work-related health problems and are highly prevalent in heavy industry. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of MSS and examine associated sociodemographic, occupational, and psychosocial factors, including job stress, among iron foundry workers. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2023 among 396 workers in an iron foundry facility in Eskişehir, Türkiye. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering sociodemographic and work-related characteristics, the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, and the Job Stress Scale. Multivariate logistic regression was conducted to identify independent predictors of MSS. FINDINGS: Of the 396 workers, 75.8% were male, with a mean age (SD) of 37.6 (8.8) years. Almost three out of four workers reported having pain or discomfort in at least one body part in the last 12 months, and 55.7% reported having pain that interfered with their work. It was found that those aged ≥30, who had low income, did not exercise regularly, work ≥55 hours/week, worked overtime or in shifts, perform mechanically strenuous tasks, have a moderate to heavy physical workload, and experienced high job stress were at higher risk of MSS. CONCLUSIONS/APPLICATION TO PRACTICE: MSS are highly prevalent among iron foundry workers, and are linked to both physical and psychosocial workplace factors. Preventive strategies should combine ergonomic interventions, workload management, and job stress reduction measures. Implementation of participatory ergonomics programs, engineering controls, and administrative policies could help reduce the burden of MSS in this occupational group.