Prevalence of hand discomfort among Florists: An Ergonomic Study

Abstract

Aim: Floral crafting is a highly repetitive and precision job involving tasks like sorting, trimming, sewing, styling and
assembling of flowers with the use of varied tools like needles, scissors and knives, among others. Objective: To explore
the prevalence of work-related hand discomfort among florists in the informal sector of Mumbai and its
suburbs. This study aimed to explore the prevalence of work-related hand discomfort among florists in the informal
sector. Methods: A hundred and twenty florists involved in making real flower garlands, jewellery and bouquets were
purposely selected as samples for the study from Mumbai city and its suburbs. Prevalence of musculoskeletal discomfort
was assessed using Cornel’s Musculoskeletal Hand Discomfort Questionnaire. Results: The study indicated significant
prevalence of hand discomfort among florists engaged in garland, jewellery and bouquet making in the unorganized sector
of Mumbai. All florists (100%) reported to be right-handed with a majority working (69.17%) from permanent cubicles
and 30.85% operating from temporary street stalls. A consistent pattern of discomfort was observed in both hands with
higher discomfort reported in the wrists, followed by index and middle fingers and thumb. The ring and little finger
exhibited the least discomfort for both right and left hands among florists. These results emphasize the need for ergonomic
interventions such as incorporating micro breaks and practicing hand exercises in between tasks to alleviate the hand
discomfort experienced by florists at work.