ASSESSMENT OF ERGONOMIC HAZARDS AMONG HEALTH CARE WORKERS IN UNIVERSITY OF BENIN TEACHING HOSPITAL

Background: Occupational health aims to promote and maintain the highest level of physical, mental, and social well-being among workers, including healthcare workers (HCWs), who face significant workplace risks. Despite being the backbone of any health system, HCWs are frequently exposed to hazards such as needle stick injuries, infections, back injuries, and stress, often prioritizing patient care over their own well-being. Protecting the health of HCWs not only safeguards their welfare but also enhances the quality of patient care and strengthens healthcare systems. Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), particularly work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs), pose a significant risk to HCWs due to the physical demands of their work, including heavy lifting and awkward postures. Preventing WRMSDs requires the application of ergonomic principles, such as proper workspace design, the use of assistive devices, and maintaining correct posture during tasks. Ergonomic interventions can reduce the risk of MSDs, improve safety, and enhance job performance, benefiting both healthcare workers and the patients they serve. Objectives: The study was carried out to investigate the types and prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders, ergonomic risk factors and coping strategies adopted by healthcare workers in University of Benin Teaching Hospital. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out among 329 healthcare workers using a stratified random sampling technique for selection. Structured self-administered questionnaires were used for data collection and data was analyzed with IBM SPSS Version 27.0.1 software utilizing univariate, bivariate and multivariate analysis.