Task engagement as a mediator between the cognitive demands of sustained attention and musculoskeletal complaints: A structural equation modelling approach

BACKGROUND: Cognitive demands in the form of sustained attention are prevalent in automated manufacturing where operators undertake monitoring tasks for prolonged periods. Sustained attention tasks are stressful and could have potential health consequences for employees including contributing to Work Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMSDs). OBJECTIVE: The study investigates if lowered task engagement (low task motivation/focus) is a mediator of the relationship between sustained attention and musculoskeletal complaints. METHOD: A structural equation modelling technique was used to determine if task engagement mediates the relationship between attention demand/attention supply and self-reported musculoskeletal complaints (MSCs) in manufacturing employees (n=235). RESULTS: Study participants were 5.16 times (OR, odds ratio) more likely to have neck complaints, 7.27 (OR) times more likely to have upper back complaints and 3.9 (OR) times more likely to report lower back complaints (OR 2.05) when attention demands were high and task engagement was low. When task engagement was introduced as a mediator between attention supply and MSCs, odds ratios decreased for neck (from 1.01 to 0.60), shoulder (from 0.95 to 0.47) (p<0.01), upper back (from 1.01 to 0.70) (p<0.01) and lower back (from 0.94 to 0.40). CONCLUSION: Task engagement was a significant mediator of the relationship between attention demand and neck, upper back and lower back musculoskeletal complaints for study participants.