MUSCULOSKELETAL PAIN AND ABSENTEEISM: THE INFLUENCE OF ERGONOMIC AWARENESS IN HIGHER EDUCATION EMPLOYEES

Aim: This study aims to investigate the relationship between the ergonomic perceptions of academic and administrative staff at universities and their reported musculoskeletal pain, as well as to assess the effect of this pain on absenteeism, as indicated by health reports and sickness permits.Methods: The study employed a sociodemographic information form to assess absenteeism, the Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ) to evaluate musculoskeletal pain, and the Postural Habits and Awareness Questionnaire (PHAQ) to measure ergonomic awareness. Results: The study comprised 242 female participants and 120 male participants, with a mean age of 38 years. Statistical analysis revealed significant occurrences of neck, back, and waist (respectively; %10.16 -11,61–10,37) pain reported within the last 7 days. Our findings suggest that neck, back, and waist scores did not contribute to participants work absenteeism (respectively; p =0.776, p =0.612, p =0.196). A significant correlation was found between the weighted CMDQ scores for neck, back, and waist and all PHAQ sub-factors. Conclusion: Low ergonomic awareness leads to postural discomfort and absenteeism, making training in ergonomic practices essential to reduce musculoskeletal pain and enhance productivity among academic and administrative staff. This study highlights that improving postural awareness in higher education employees can significantly reduce neck, back, and waist pain related to prolonged sitting and improper work positions.