Affiliations: Department of Physiology, University of Kalyani,
Nadia, West Bengal, India
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Dr. Subhashis Sahu, Department of
Physiology, University of Kalyani, Kalyani-741235, Nadia, West Bengal, India.
Tel.: +91 33 2582 8750 (Extn. 353); Fax: +91 33 2582 8282; E-mail:
skcsahu@yahoo.co.in
Abstract: Work-related problems, many of which could be prevented with proper
ergonomic techniques are particularly common in developing countries. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the work stress and
the development of the work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) of
workers employed in the jute mills of India. Participants: About 219 male workers engaged in different
departments of three jute industries in 24-Parganas (North) and Hooghly
districts of West Bengal, India volunteered for this study. Methods: Questionnaires along with direct observation of work
postures were conducted. Physical parameters such as body weight, height;
physiological parameters like heart rate response, blood pressure and
psycho-physiological parameters such as perceived exertion rating were studied
during different tasks performed by them. Results: It was observed that the 'hacklers' are mostly stressed.
Analyses of working postures (OWAS) suggested that their adopted awkward
postures were very stressful. A large number of hacklers (92.5% suffer from
intense pain in different body parts as compared to workers in other
departments of the jute industries. Workers report that the pain even lasts
many hours after work. Conclusions: Since most of the workers perform repetitive tasks, so
both the workplace as well as the work-rest schedule must be reorganized.
