Risk Factors for Health Disorders in Computer Operators in Telecom Serbia

Computer operators are at risk to develop health disorders related to prolonged computer use. We assessed the occupational risk factors for computer-related health disorders and evaluated health conditions of 939 Serbian computer operators. Musculoskeletal (55.8%), ocular (27.3%) and mental disorders (7.1%) were reported most frequently. Risk factors for health disorders, in both male and female populations, were age; overtime work; negative working atmosphere; awkward posture at work; the presence of vibrations, noise, dust and chemical pollution in the workplace. Negative working atmosphere, body mass index > 30, total job tenure and duration of exposed employment were risk factors for developing health disorders only in males, while smoking was a risk factor only in the female population. Our study showed high prevalence of musculoskeletal and ocular disorders in Serbian computer operators. More effective preventive measures are necessary to improve computer operators' health.