The total direct cost and knowledge, attitude and practices to musculoskeletal disorder

Abstract

The objectives of this study are 1) to determine the total direct costs incurred as a result of cases of chronic musculoskeletal injuries that was approved by the Social Security Organization of Malaysia SOCSO from 2009-2014. 2) To identify the total direct cost for the types of industry, causes of injury, types o f injury and types of body part. 3) To assess the levels of Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices about MSDs among the employer. 4) To find the association of Knowledge, Attitude, Practices (KAP) with demographic profile and KAP variables. This study adopted top down approached from SOCSO database on permanent disability, paid cases and completed cases on the occupational disease for the period 2009 until 2014. The total direct cost on types of industries, types of injury, causes of accident and type of body parts is collected for the 416 claims. 270 questionnaires is distributed to the employer in order to know the KAP and 45 were responded. The data is analyses by using descriptive data and inferential statistic. Manufacturing industry, strenuous movement, sprain and strain and back are recorded as highest total direct cost with the cost of RM 5,181,282.34, RM 7,088,839.51, RM 8,753,975.13, and RM 5,526,590.69 respectively. The age group of 35-44 years old is recorded as the highest total average cost. The knowledge shows strong correlation with the experiences work in safety field and practices has the significant with level of education. While, only attitude shows the correlation with practices. MSDs cases are increasing hence thorough research is needed in order to understand the underlying of cost claims. For the KAP factors are crucial, therefore it is need to increase the number of the sample size. This study will provide the basis for future studies and intervention on MSD related injuries in working environment in Malaysia.