Case control study of the relations between risk of back pain sickness absence and the nature of tasks carried out by coalminers. .

The study investigated the differences between tasks performed by underground coal miners at two collieries in the United Kingdom and their history of back pain sickness absence during a six month period. The study involved 104 workers and 215 controls. A questionnaire was developed which identified tasks performed underground such as lifting, carrying, holding, pushing, pulling and using transport underground. Coal miners completed this questionnaire and another concerning the occurrence of back pain. Chronic back ache or pain was present in 46% of the cases and 24% of the controls. 41% of cases had more than one attack of back pain in the preceding year compared to 42% of controls. Questionnaire responses were analysed by logistic regression techniques. It was shown that the frequency of heavy lifting by underground mines is associated with an increased risk of absence due to a back problem. The report gives full details of the method, analysis and results of the study and suggests methods of reducing risk of back pain. It recommends the survey be validated further and a study be made of more active medical management of back pain amongst coal miners