Whole-body vibration exposure and its predictors among food delivery riders in eastern Peninsular Malaysia.

Abstract

Background: Chronic exposure to whole-body vibration (WBV) is a significant contributor to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) among motorcyclists. In Malaysia, these riders experience a higher prevalence of WMSDs compared to non-occupational motorcyclists. This study aimed to quantify WBV exposure among food delivery riders in Eastern Peninsular Malaysia and to identify predictors of WBV exposure exceeding the Exposure Action Value (EAV) as defined by the EU Vibration Protection Directive 2002/44/EC.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 191 food delivery riders in Eastern Peninsular Malaysia. WBV exposure was measured using a calibrated Larson Davis HVM 100 Human Vibration Meter with a tri-axial accelerometer seat pad, following ISO 2631-1 standards. Data were analyzed using Blaze Software and SPSS 24.0. Daily Vibration Exposure, A(8), was calculated and compared with EAV and Exposure Limit Value (ELV). Multiple logistic regression was used to determine predictors of WBV exposure above the EAV limit.

Results: The mean (SD) A(8) value was 0.624 (0.317) m/s², which exceeded the EAV limit. Three riders surpassed the ELV limit. Significant predictors of WBV exposure above the EAV included increased average working days (aOR = 1.56; 95% CI = 1.11, 2.19; p = 0.011), presence of WMSDs (aOR = 2.93; 95% CI = 1.37, 6.28; p = 0.006), and lack of motorcycle suspension service (aOR = 0.39; 95% CI = 0.19, 0.82; p = 0.012).

Conclusion: Food delivery riders in Eastern Peninsular Malaysia are frequently exposed to high levels of WBV exposure. These findings underscore the urgent need for interventional studies and preventive measures to reduce WBV exposure and mitigate the prevalence of WMSDs among this vulnerable occupational group.