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Faculty of Health Sciences, University Center of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil; Institute of Psychology, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil.
Abstract: (165 Views)
Background: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders are highly prevalent among outsourced electrical line workers, who are exposed to intense physical demands, organizational pressures, and persistent psychosocial stressors. This study examined whether psychosocial risk factors and perceived safety climate are associated with the prevalence and functional impact of musculoskeletal symptoms in this population.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted between February and April 2024 with 689 outsourced electrical line workers recruited from distribution companies across Brazil. Standardized instruments were used to assessed musculoskeletal symptoms, psychosocial stressors, and perceptions of safety climate. Data were analyzed using R software through descriptive statistics and structural equation modeling.
Results: More than half of the workers reported at least one musculoskeletal symptom in the previous 12 months, most commonly affecting the shoulders and neck. Higher exposure to psychosocial stressors was associated with increased frequency and impact of complaints, whereas a more favorable safety climate was linked to lower symptom prevalence, fewer impairments, and reduced need for medical care.
Conclusion: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders among outsourced electrical line workers reflect the combined influence of physical workload, organizational conditions, and psychosocial stressors. Prevention should integrate ergonomic measures with organizational strategies that reduce psychosocial risks and strengthen safety climate, particularly in outsourced and other high-risk occupational contexts.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted between February and April 2024 with 689 outsourced electrical line workers recruited from distribution companies across Brazil. Standardized instruments were used to assessed musculoskeletal symptoms, psychosocial stressors, and perceptions of safety climate. Data were analyzed using R software through descriptive statistics and structural equation modeling.
Results: More than half of the workers reported at least one musculoskeletal symptom in the previous 12 months, most commonly affecting the shoulders and neck. Higher exposure to psychosocial stressors was associated with increased frequency and impact of complaints, whereas a more favorable safety climate was linked to lower symptom prevalence, fewer impairments, and reduced need for medical care.
Conclusion: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders among outsourced electrical line workers reflect the combined influence of physical workload, organizational conditions, and psychosocial stressors. Prevention should integrate ergonomic measures with organizational strategies that reduce psychosocial risks and strengthen safety climate, particularly in outsourced and other high-risk occupational contexts.
Type of Study: Original Article |
Subject:
Occupational and Industrial Health
Received: 2026/01/18 | Accepted: 2026/03/14
Received: 2026/01/18 | Accepted: 2026/03/14
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