Introduction The participatory ergonomic (PE) approach has been widely used to improve the health outcomes. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of the participatory ergonomic intervention program (PEIP) can reduce musculoskeletal and health outcomes among hospital orderlies.

Method The randomised controlled trial (RCT) was conducted at tertiary care hospitals during July to December 2014. There were 100 orderlies participated in this study. Data collection was carried out by self-reported questionnaire and Quick exposure check (QEC) technique.

Results The musculoskeletal symptom and work ability among the intervention group at post intervention were illustrated the marginal changes trend. This study found that sick leave among orderlies in the intervention group did not decrease. An explanation for the lack of decreased sick leave is that physical risk factors were addressed during the intervention period. During short follow up (2 months), the positive outcome of the PEIP program within the intervention group had proven by the number of health outcomes achievements carried out by orderlies. QEC scores were found illustrated the marginal changes trend for the lower back, hips/thighs and then upper back among the intervention group at post intervention, whereas the scores for the shoulder/arm, wrist/hand and neck were not found the marginal changes trend for static use and moderate for moving.

Discussion This study suggests that the substantial improvements in work environments and health outcomes among healthcare worker were seen following participatory ergonomic (PE) approach.