Background Occupational light vehicle driving is becoming increasingly important in the parcel delivery/messaging sector faced with new consumer practices. Our objective was to analyze the effect of driving of light vehicle for the mail/parcel delivery on low back pain (LBP) and upper-extremity musculoskeletal disorders (UEMSDs) taking into account work organization. We also aimed to identify the protective factors from MSDs that could be implemented into this specific workplace.

Methods The study was carried out in 406 postal workers (306 with driving delivery activity, 100 with foot delivery/manual handling activities). Subjects completed a self-administrated questionnaire about personal characteristics and working conditions assessing occupational driving, physical constraints, psychosocial factors and work organization. Work organization was also assessed at the establishment level. MSDs were assessed by the Nordic Questionnaire, with some additional questions for LBP. For UEMSDs, a medical examination using a standardized clinical methodology of the European consensus was carried out. Statistical analysis was performed separately in men and women by multivariable logistic regression modeling for the UEMSDs and by item response theory approach for LBP.

Results Driving time and high perceived driving-related physical constraints are associated to LBP in men. Carrying loads>3 Kg, awkward postures and high perceived physical demands related to parcel loading and delivery are associated with MSDs for both sexes. The main psychosocial risk factors are the lack of reward, being mobbed and the necessity of undertaking tasks that the worker disapproves. Protective factors are the use of vehicles fitted with automatic gearbox and taking breaks from work; at establishment level, drive training and use of supplementary staff during peak periods.

Conclusion The effect of driving of light vehicle on MSDs seems quite limited whereas physical and psychosocial constraints are clearly risk factors. Targeting work organization could protect postal workers with driving delivery activity from MSDs.