943 Prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal diseases and disability in construction workers in ankara

Introduction Musculoskeletal diseases (MSD) affect almost 30% of the global construction sectorworkforce. Recent studies have shown high risks in bricklayers, plasterers and carpenters. The main causes of MSD in construction workers are heavy lifting, repetitive movements and poor ergonomic working postures. However, there are no studies in Turkey assessing work-related MSD prevalence in the construction sectorand related disability in work and daily life. The aim of this study is to examine the prevalence of work related musculoskeletal symptoms and disability in manual handling construction workers active in the construction of new buildings for a city hospital in Ankara. Methods We plan a cross-sectional study using a questionnaire on sociodemographic characteristics, risk factors at work and employment conditions, work history, health status, the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ), and disability, as a consequence of work-related MSD, using a supervised face-to-face interview method. The interviews will be performed by trained occupational health and safety specialists from the Public Health Institution of Turkey (PHIT). The study proposal has been approved by the PHITand the construction company. Workers will be asked for informed consent. Results We will include about 1.200 Turkish workers in the construction branch in the study. The prevalence of work-related MSD and disability will be determined, stratified for occupational groups and socio-demographic variables. Results are expected in October 2017. Discussion The main outcome is the estimated prevalence of work-related MSDs in construction workers and associated occupational risk factors in the construction branch of Turkey. We will also analyse the effect of these disorders on the prevalence of disability in work and daily life. Based on the results, interventions for prevention will be recommended.