Predictive analysis of upper-limb ergonomic risk among teachers

Abstract

Abstract: The study analyzes the level of ergonomic risk and the likelihood of developing musculoskeletal symptoms in the upper limbs of employees who perform repetitive upper limb activities, according to the OCRA methodology. The study included 300 records related to educators with similar sociodemographic charac-teristics. Detailed occupational data were collected, including length of employment, type of school, and teaching status, to contextualize ergonomic risks in their work environment. The dataset contains respon-ses related to specific ergonomic knowledge asso-ciated with back pain and the importance of posture. Additionally, teachers reported the frequency and se-verity of their musculoskeletal discomfort in different body parts, including the neck, shoulders, and lower back, using the Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ). Information from this dataset served as a basis for identifying common ergonomic problems faced by educators, facilitating research to improve workplace ergonomics and reduce the risk of Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) in educational settings. The results obtained showed that, in the me-dium term, there is a gradual increase in ergonomic risk, with those most affected being those employees who work primarily in office tasks with direct impact on the elbow and hand, in relation to their age and work experience to a lesser degree.