Factores de riesgos biomecánicos y sus efectos sobre la salud en trabajadores del sector de microempresas de manufactura en Colombia: Revisión documental 2020 - 2025

Abstract

This research aimed to analyze biomechanical risk factors and their effects on the health of workers in the manufacturing sector in Colombia, based on scientific literature published between 2020 and 2025. The study was conducted using a qualitative approach and a documentary review design in the form of a scoping monograph, following the guidelines established by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI). Ergonomics was addressed as a discipline focused on adapting working conditions to human capabilities in order to promote safety, health, and productivity. From the biomechanical model perspective, continuous exposure to physical forces, repetitive movements, awkward postures, and manual material handling can lead to musculoskeletal disorders due to the accumulation of microtrauma in muscles, tendons, and joints. Information was collected through a systematic review of scientific articles, books, technical reports, and national and international regulations. The selected studies were organized into a documentary review matrix to facilitate analysis. Findings were classified into categories related to ergonomics, biomechanical risks, musculoskeletal disorders, working conditions, productivity, and preventive measures. The results showed that the main biomechanical risks in manufacturing microenterprises are awkward postures, repetitive movements, and manual handling of loads. These factors are significantly associated with occupational diseases such as low back pain, tendinitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and neck pain, negatively affecting workers’ health, increasing absenteeism, and reducing productivity. The review also identified the most commonly reported preventive measures, including ergonomic workstation redesign, active break programs, and the application of ergonomic assessment methods. However, their implementation remains limited due to economic, technical, and training constraints. Consequently, biomechanical risks continue to represent a significant occupational health challenge in Colombia’s manufacturing sector.