Background: Ergonomics plays an important role in safety and health of professionals in skill-based work stations. Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) can affect almost all parts of the body especially the neck, back and upper limbs, depending upon the physical movement characteristics as well as ergonomic & mechanical design of work tasks. In order to ensure good practices at work it is necessary to understand the engineering and worker controls of professionals involved in heavy work demand and stressful work stations. Interdisciplinary areas of research need to be promoted among health care and hospitality industry. One of the areas of mutual interest is ergonomics. This paper would also help to identify potential areas of future research interest for those involved in research from both the disciplines. Methods: A preliminary survey was undertaken among 15 selected workers from a hospitality-based industry in Dakshina Kannada district. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to identify self- reported pain findings and demographic data. Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) was used for upper limb posture analysis. Results: Out of 15 subjects evaluated, 6subjects (40%) complained of musculoskeletal pain- 3 subjects (20%) had low back pain and 3 subjects (20%) complained of lower leg pain which is intermittent in nature. RULA scale indicated that 6 subjects (40%) were at low risk and 9 subjects (60%) of workers were at medium risk for MSD. Conclusion: Lack of ergonomic awareness and poor work practices were found in the subjects of the present study. Results warrant implementation of proper knowledge among workers regarding proper posture and health education. There is a need to switch to ergonomically designed work stations with a focus to prevent WRMSDs.
