From The Ergoweb® Learning Center

Research Summary: Movement Needed In Addressing Forklift Operators Musculoskeletal Disorders

Key Point: Epidemiological studies investigating the relationship between forklift operators and musculoskeletal disorders have concentrated solely on low back conditions as an outcome and are characterized by poor investigative technique.

Seven epidemiological studies demonstrated a significant association between forklift operation and low back pain when Waters et al. statistically combined study findings to calculate a meta-odds ratio of 2.13. Surprisingly, no studies were found that examined neck or upper extremity disorders relative to forklift operators.

The authors indicated the reviewed studies were marked by marginal to average methodological quality. When assessed by an

This article originally appeared in The Ergonomics Report™ on 2006-02-22.