Assessing postural loads and musculoskeletal disorders in saffron harvesters: a prospective repeated-measures observational study using an agricultural-specific tool

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) represent one of the most prevalent occupational health challenges worldwide, particularly in agricultural sectors where workers are engaged in physically demanding tasks. Saffron harvesting, characterized by prolonged squatting, bending, and repetitive hand movements, imposes considerable biomechanical strain on workers, placing them at elevated risk for MSDs. This prospective repeated-measures observational study was conducted between September and November 2023 among the same cohort of 220 saffron harvesters in Razavi Khorasan Province, Iran, all of whom worked a minimum of three hours per day during the harvesting season. Data collection involved the Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ), researcher-developed checklists, interviews, and direct observations. Postural loads were assessed using the Agricultural Whole-Body Assessment (AWBA) method, while musculoskeletal discomfort levels were measured at two distinct time points: immediately prior to the start of the harvest season and at its conclusion (approximately 6 weeks later). Statistical analyses were performed with SPSS version 24. The analysis revealed mean ergonomic risk scores of 3.4 ± 1.82 (AULA), 3.1 ± 1.43 (ALLA), and 3.2 ± 1.38 (AWBA), indicating high to very high postural risk levels. Following the harvesting period, discomfort scores increased significantly across all body regions, with the knees (24.41), wrists (22.38), and lower legs (16.76) showing the highest mean values. Wilcoxon signed-rank test demonstrated significant increases in MSDs for the shoulder (P = 0.018), thigh (P < 0.001), wrist (P < 0.001), knees (P < 0.001), lower leg (P < 0.001), and foot (P = 0.010). Moreover, significant differences in MSDs scores across different working postures were observed in the following regions: neck (P = 0.015), shoulder (P = 0.009), lower back (P = 0.041), wrist (P = 0.038), thigh (P = 0.048), knees (P = 0.010), lower leg (P = 0.034), and foot (P = 0.043). Overall, the findings underscore the substantial ergonomic burden associated with saffron harvesting and highlight the urgent need for targeted ergonomic interventions. Implementing mechanization strategies, ergonomic tools, and posture training programs can play a vital role in reducing musculoskeletal risks and improving the health and productivity of workers involved in this labor-intensive agricultural activity.