Abstract
The KOSHA codes H-31 and H-30 provide general guidelines to establish a prevention program for work-related musculoskeletal disorders(WMSD). Understanding of the components and practitioner needs for a WMSD prevention program is necessary for effective revision and implementation of the KOSHA codes. The present study established a comprehensive structure for a WMSD prevention program and surveyed practitioner needs for the KOSHA codes. The comprehensive prevention program structure, consisting of 7 parts(organization, education, risk management, medical management, program evaluation, and record keeping) and 90 items, was constructed by analyzing WMSD prevention guidelines published by various government agencies such as KOSHA, OSHA and NIOSH. Next, 20 practitioners, from four industry sectors(auto manufacturing, auto part manufacturing, shipbuilding, and machinery), working in a safety and health department or labor union, were interviewed to collect opinions for the KOSHA codes in terms of relevance, government support, and additional information needed. Guidelines of the KOSHA codes requiring modifications and government supports were identified, which can be used to revise the KOSHA codes and to establish a government policy to promote the implementation of the KOSHA codes. Lastly, the survey revealed that integrated, customized, quantitative, and case information for WMSD prevention is additionally needed, which can be used as design guidelines for a WMSD prevention program manual for practitioners.
