<![CDATA[Background: Workers in the informal sector engaged in water hyacinth handicrafts typically perform manual tasks for extended periods in static, bent, or non-ergonomic postures. These conditions increase the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), which may reduce productivity, decrease work comfort, and lead to long-term health problems. Unfortunately, ergonomic aspects are often overlooked in informal work environments such as the handicraft industry. Objective: This study aims to examine the relationship between work posture and musculoskeletal disorder complaints among water hyacinth handicraft workers at Akar Handicraft. Method: This research employed a quantitative approach with a cross-sectional design. A total of 35 respondents were selected using a total sampling technique. The Nordic Body Map (NBM) questionnaire was used to assess musculoskeletal complaints, and the Ovako Working Posture Analysis System (OWAS) was applied to evaluate work posture. Data were analyzed using Somers’ d test. Result: The analysis revealed a significant relationship between work posture and the level of musculoskeletal disorder complaints (p = 0.000), with a positive correlation coefficient of 0.720. This indicates that the higher the risk associated with work posture, the higher the level of musculoskeletal complaints. However, no significant relationship was found between age or gender and musculoskeletal complaints. Conclusion: Work posture significantly influences musculoskeletal disorder complaints among workers. Therefore, ergonomic interventions such as education on proper working posture, the provision of appropriate assistive tools, and the implementation of balanced work rest schedules are essential to prevent musculoskeletal disorders and improve productivity.]]>
