Ergonomic Risks, Psychosocial Associations and Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Symptoms Among Laboratory Workers in a Malaysian Medical Research Institute

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) represent a significant occupational health concern among medical laboratory workers (MLWs) worldwide. However, in cross-sectional epidemiological assessments, these are more accurately characterized as self-reported musculoskeletal symptoms (MSSs). Despite growing awareness of physical ergonomic risk factors, the multifactorial etiology of these symptoms, such as psychosocial factors, remains incompletely understood in research laboratory settings. Consequently, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of MSSs among MLWs in a Malaysian research institute, assess physical ergonomic risk in their daily tasks, and evaluate the empirical association between MSSs and psychosocial work engagement. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among MLWs at a Malaysian medical research institute. The 12-month prevalence of self-reported MSSs was assessed using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. Physical ergonomic risk was evaluated utilizing the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA). Psychosocial work engagement was measured using the 17-item Utrecht Work Engagement Scale. Results: A total of 115 MLWs participated, with 73 (63.5%) reporting MSSs. The neck had the highest complaints (n = 43, 37.4%), followed by the lower back (n = 35, 30.4%) and shoulders (n = 33, 28.7%). Multivariable modified Poisson Generalized Estimating Equations revealed that physical ergonomic risk (REBA) was significantly associated with symptoms in the shoulder, upper back, and lower back. Female sex was independently correlated with the overall prevalence of MSSs (aPR = 1.39; 95% CI = 1.14–1.68), with marked associations observed for the neck and knees. Psychosocially, high “absorption” in work was significantly associated with upper back symptom prevalence (aPR = 1.57; 95% CI = 1.15–2.14). Conclusions: Ergonomic strain demonstrates a strong association with axial and shoulder symptoms among MLWs, while demographic characteristics and cumulative tenure correlate with specific extremity symptoms. Paradoxically, high psychological absorption emerges as a distinct correlate of upper back symptoms, likely due to prolonged postural neglect during deep concentration. Occupational health programs may benefit from combining targeted ergonomic accommodations with strategies designed to mitigate the potential physical vulnerabilities of highly absorbed personnel.