Análise da relação entre fatores de riscos ocupacionais, distúrbios osteomusculares e qualidade de vida no trabalho entre trabalhadores de grupos etários diferentes

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between occupational risk factors, musculoskeletal disorders, and quality of work life in the context of generational differences. Occupational risks, ranging from improper postures to psychosocial stressors, are crucial to workers' health. Workrelated musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are one of the consequences of the combined action of these risks. Moreover, risk factors and WMSDs significantly affect the quality of work life (QWL). The study analyzed two samples of workers: the first consisting of young individuals (under 45 years old) and the second comprising non-young workers (45 years or older). Using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM), the study tested hypotheses linking risk factors to WMSDs and QWL in both groups. The measurement model demonstrated strong psychometric properties, ensuring reliability, convergent validity, and discriminant validity, while the structural model assessed the proposed hypotheses. The results differed across young and non-young workers in several aspects. Among the findings, it was observed that working under tight deadlines impacts stress levels only among non-young workers. Additionally, WMSDs significantly affect QWL only among young workers. For both groups, the impact of physical demands and stress on WMSDs and the influence of stress on QWL were confirmed. This study enhances understanding of the relationships between occupational risks, WMSDs, and QWL among young and non-young workers. These insights can guide future ergonomic interventions and support the development of public policies.