Musculoskeletal disorders and psychosocial factors among newspaper and commercial print workers

Results of a survey of physical and psychosocial factors associated with musculoskeletal disorders are compared between 3 work types in 6 newspaper and printing operations in B.C. (n=190) and office workers are compared to data from a major Ontario newspaper. In B.C., pain recurring >3 times/year or lasting >5 days was reported for 56%. Among office workers, upper limb symptoms were similar between B.C. (57%) and Ontario (54.6%). In B.C. higher levels of symptoms among office workers than other work types appears associated with static and repetitive work combined with high pressures from deadlines and psychological demands. Bindery workers had the lowest prevalence of pain (34%) despite highest physical demands. They had less skill discretion, decision authority, and empowerment, but the greatest job security and least psychological demands and deadlines/pressures. Compared with Ontario, B.C. office workers had less skill discretion, decision authority and social support, perhaps reflecting a more fractious labour climate.