Ergonomic Awareness and Preventive Practices of Muscoskeletal Disorders Among Academic Staff in Abia State University, Uturu, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are a significant occupational health concern among academic professionals due to prolonged standing, sitting, repetitive tasks, and suboptimal workstation arrangements. Ergonomics, the science of designing the workplace to fit the user, is recognized as a key preventive approach to managing and reducing the risk of MSDs. Aim: This study aims to assess the extent of ergonomic awareness and preventive practices related to MSDs among academic staff at Abia State University, Uturu. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed, and data were collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire. A total of 277 academic staff were selected through convenience sampling from seven faculties, including Health Sciences, Humanities, Social Sciences, Engineering, Physical Sciences, Biological Sciences, and Environmental Studies. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: Findings revealed that 72.9% of respondents had heard of musculoskeletal disorders, and 38.3% correctly linked ergonomics to practices aimed at preventing work-related injuries. The most reported symptoms in the past 12 months included upper/lower back pain (39.0%), leg/knee pain (33.6%), and shoulder pain (27.8%). Preventive practices such as adjusting sitting posture and taking regular breaks were inconsistently followed, with 36.1% rarely adjusting their posture and 41.5% rarely taking breaks. Major barriers to ergonomic practices included lack of ergonomic tools (37.2%), uncomfortable workspaces (35.4%), and heavy workload (32.9%). Awareness of MSDs was significantly associated with age, academic rank, years of experience, and faculty (p < 0.05). Similarly, preventive practices were significantly higher among staff with prior awareness of MSDs. Conclusion: Overall, this study highlights the pressing need to strengthen ergonomic education, implement institutional support structures, and provide necessary tools to mitigate the risk of MSDs among academic staff. While awareness of MSDs among academic staff was relatively high, the translation into consistent ergonomic preventive practices was suboptimal. The study recommends targeted ergonomic training, improved workstation infrastructure, and university-led interventions to foster safer academic work environments.