Prevalence of Work‐Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSDs) and Ergonomic Risk Assessment Among Military Aircraft Maintenance Personnel

Introduction: Work‐related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are typical health issues that have considerably caused disability among staff across industrial fields. Although aircraft mechanics and maintenance technicians reported significant workplace injuries, injury risk exposure evaluations of the various tasks in the industry are limited. Objective: The current study determined WMSD or pain prevalence and ergonomic risks faced by military aircraft personnel. Methods: A total of 40 military aircraft maintenance staff from the engineering department were selected according to the simple random sampling method. Data collection method was carried out with a self‐administered questionnaire, Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ), while the ergonomic risk factor level was assessed according to the Quick Exposure Check (QEC) method. QEC assessment method was done by both observer and participants. The preliminary action levels for the QEC score were also analysed. Results: Based on the 12‐month WMSDs prevalence, the shoulder and knees (90%, n = 36), lower back (77.5%, n = 31) and neck (70%, n = 28) recorded the highest body discomfort and pain percentages. The QEC results revealed that the engine bay area required immediate changes (red) 72%, while five other sites necessitated prompt alterations (orange) range between 51% and 70%. Conclusion: Military aircraft maintenance personnel, particularly individuals working in the engine bay, are exposed to notable risks of shoulder, wrist, back (static) and neck region injuries, which could affect their well‐being and productivity. Consequently, aviation maintenance personnel should perform routine physical exercises as an alternative to ergonomic interventions.