A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY OF MUSCULOSKELETAL SYMPTOMS AND RISK-FACTORS PN SEMICONDUCTOR WORKERS

As part of the cross-sectional component of the Semiconductor Health S tudy, we assessed prevalence of specific musculoskeletal symptoms and their association with possible ergonomic risk factors. A total of 3,1 75 persons (78% participation rate) from eight manufacturing sites acr oss the U.S. completed a health and work questionnaire. Using logistic regression methods to adjust for nonoccupational factors, we compared musculoskeletal symptom (self report) prevalence among fabrication ro om (fab) and nonfab workers, among specific work process groups, and a mong workers exposed to selected ergonomic stressors. Overall, seven o f 12 musculoskeletal outcomes were significantly more prevalent among fab workers. Distal upper-extremity symptoms were more common among fa b than nonfab workers [relative risk (RR) = 1.44, 95% confidence inter val (CI) = 1.26-1.63] and showed a dose-response effect with hours per day spent in the fab; increased risk was associated with frequency of lifting and with use of vacuum wands and projection aligners. Female sex and high somatization index score were associated with increased r eporting for all musculoskeletal outcomes. (C) 1995 Wiley-Liss, Inc.