Ergonomic Training Cuts Musculoskeletal Disorders in Office Workers

| Posted in: Science

Journal name: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
Original article title: Ergonomic Training Reduces Musculoskeletal Disorders among Office Workers: Results from the 6-Month Follow-Up
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences (MJMS) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal published online at least six times a year. It covers all aspects of medical sciences and prioritizes high-quality research.
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Original source:

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Author:

Norashikin Mahmud, Dianna Theadora Kenny, Raemy Md Zein, Siti Nurani Hassan


The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences:

(A peer-reviewed, open-access journal)

Full text available for: Ergonomic Training Reduces Musculoskeletal Disorders among Office Workers: Results from the 6-Month Follow-Up

Year: 2011

Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0


Download the PDF file of the original publication


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are prevalent among office workers, significantly impacting their health and productivity. Various risk factors contribute to the development of MSDs, including individual, ergonomic, and psychosocial elements. Ergonomics education and training are recognized as essential strategies to mitigate the risk of these disorders in a work setting. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of office ergonomics training on the prevalence of MSDs and psychological well-being among university office workers at the Universiti Teknologi Malaysia. It involved a cluster randomized controlled trial where some participants received in-depth ergonomics training while others received only informational leaflets.

Significant Improvement in Workstation Habits and MSDs

The intervention resulted in notable improvements in workstation habits, with significant changes observed in the use of keyboards, mice, chairs, and desks. Specifically, there was a remarkable 42.2% reduction in the incidence of neck MSDs. Adjusted analyses showed significant differences in the prevalence of MSDs in several body regions, including the neck, shoulders, and limbs. However, improvements in musculoskeletal disorders did not correlate with reduced days lost from work or enhanced psychological well-being, suggesting that while ergonomics training effectively elevates awareness and alters workstation habits, these changes did not lead to decreased sick leave or improvements in mental health metrics.

Conclusion

The study underscores the importance of ergonomics training in improving workstation habits and reducing the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among office workers. Despite the positive outcomes regarding the incidence of MSDs, the failure to observe a corresponding reduction in sick leave and psychological well-being indicates that further interventions might be necessary to translate ergonomic improvements into overall health benefits. As workplace ergonomics training is vital for creating safer working environments, organizations should consider implementing comprehensive programs that empower employees and promote their long-term health and productivity.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What was the purpose of the study conducted on computer users?

The study aimed to explore the impact of ergonomics education on reducing musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among office workers, assessing changes in workstation habits and psychological well-being after training.

What type of trial design was used in this research?

The research utilized a cluster randomised controlled trial design, where office units were randomly assigned to either receive ergonomics training or a control leaflet.

What were the significant findings related to workstation habits?

Significant improvements in workstation habits were observed post-intervention, particularly in keyboard, mouse, chair, and desk use, indicating effective training. These improvements were maintained at the follow-up assessment.

Did the ergonomics training improve psychological well-being among participants?

No significant differences in psychological well-being were observed between the intervention and control groups post-training, despite improvements in workstation habits and reductions in MSDs.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Ergonomic Training Cuts Musculoskeletal Disorders in Office Workers”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Training:
Training refers to the structured program provided to office workers to enhance their ergonomic knowledge and workstation habits. The study demonstrated that training led to significant improvements in ergonomic practices, ultimately contributing to a noticeable reduction in musculoskeletal disorders among participants, highlighting its crucial role in workplace health initiatives.

2) Study (Studying):
The study conducted was a cluster randomized controlled trial designed to assess the effects of ergonomics training versus a control group receiving only informational leaflets. Its findings provided empirical evidence on the impact of workplace ergonomic education on reducing musculoskeletal disorders, sick leave, and influencing psychological well-being.

3) Education:
Education encompasses the formal and informal teaching provided to participants about ergonomics and its connection to musculoskeletal disorders. The participants gained essential knowledge on proper workstation setups and habits, reinforcing the notion that educating employees is fundamental to promoting health and well-being in office work environments.

4) Table:
The term 'Table' refers to the structured presentation of data, specifically demographic and occupational characteristics of study participants. It organizes and summarizes critical information, allowing for a straightforward comparison between groups, which is essential in interpreting study results and demonstrating any significant differences or trends observed.

5) Post:
In the context of the study, 'Post' indicates the follow-up assessment conducted after the intervention. This evaluation is pivotal in examining the sustained effects of ergonomics training on workstation habits and musculoskeletal disorders, facilitating a deeper understanding of the training's long-term efficacy in improving workplace health.

6) Observation:
Observation pertains to the systematic monitoring and assessment of participants' workstation habits during the study. Trained observers recorded ergonomic practices based on a checklist, providing quantitative data that contributed to demonstrating the effectiveness of the intervention in enhancing proper ergonomics and reducing risks associated with musculoskeletal disorders.

7) Knowledge:
Knowledge encapsulates the understanding and information gained by participants regarding ergonomics and its relationship to health. The study emphasized that increased knowledge through training plays a significant role in promoting healthier workplace practices, ultimately aiming to decrease the incidence of musculoskeletal disorders among office workers.

8) Hand:
The term 'Hand' pertains to the physical engagement of employees in ergonomically adjusting their workstations, particularly while using computer equipment. Proper positioning of hands during work is essential in preventing musculoskeletal disorders, highlighting the importance of training workers on effective hand positions to mitigate strain-related injuries.

9) Developing:
Developing relates to the process of cultivating or improving skills and habits through ergonomic training. This term highlights the ongoing need for workers to adapt their workspace and practices, which is crucial for reducing the risk of musculoskeletal disorders and enhancing overall workplace health and safety.

10) Depression:
Depression in this context refers to one of the mental health aspects evaluated in the study through the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale. Understanding the psychological well-being of office workers is vital, as musculoskeletal disorders can contribute to mental health challenges, indicating an interconnected relationship between physical and emotional health.

11) Furniture:
Furniture pertains to the ergonomic elements within the office environment, including desks, chairs, and equipment utilized by workers. Proper ergonomic design and arrangement of furniture are pivotal in creating a workspace conducive to minimizing physical strain, thereby reducing musculoskeletal disorders and improving worker comfort and productivity.

12) Learning:
Learning signifies the process by which participants acquire knowledge and skills related to ergonomics through training. This concept is vital as it highlights the importance of empowering employees with the right information and practices, fostering an environment that prioritizes health and well-being in occupational settings.

13) Anxiety:
Anxiety reflects another mental health condition monitored in the study using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale. Evaluating anxiety levels among workers is crucial, as the presence of musculoskeletal disorders can exacerbate stress and anxiety, indicating the need for interventions that support both physical and mental health in the workplace.

14) Pain:
Pain is a critical outcome assessed in the study, particularly concerning musculoskeletal disorders experienced by office workers. Understanding pain levels associated with improper workstation use reinforces the necessity for ergonomic training, aiming to minimize discomfort and promote healthier working conditions that enhance overall well-being.

15) Arrangement:
Arrangement refers to the proper organization and setup of ergonomic elements in the workspace, including furniture and equipment. Effective arrangement is essential to ensure comfort and safety for office workers, thereby reducing the likelihood of developing musculoskeletal disorders and enhancing overall workplace efficiency and satisfaction.

16) Reliability:
Reliability indicates the consistency and dependability of the measurement tools used in the study. High inter-rater reliability among observers ensures that the observed ergonomic behaviors are accurate and trustworthy, reinforcing the study's findings and supporting the credibility of conclusions drawn regarding the effectiveness of the intervention.

17) Perception:
Perception relates to the workers' awareness and beliefs about ergonomics and their impact on health. Changes in perception following ergonomic training can considerably influence workplace behaviors, making it essential to assess and improve workers' understanding and attitudes towards ergonomics to foster better health and productivity.

18) Discussion:
Discussion is the section within the study where researchers interpret and analyze their findings. This part is crucial for contextualizing results, highlighting the relevance of the study's outcomes in relation to existing literature, and providing recommendations for future research and workplace ergonomics practices.

19) Lighting:
Lighting is an environmental factor that influences workplace ergonomics and comfort. While primarily the study focused on physical posture and habits, adequate lighting conditions can reduce glare and strain on the eyes, thereby contributing to overall well-being and productivity, thus contextually relevant in office ergonomics discussions.

20) Disease:
Disease refers to health conditions associated with the workplace, particularly musculoskeletal disorders. Understanding the prevalence of these diseases among computer users underscores the necessity for ergonomic interventions, highlighting the critical role such measures play in promoting health and occupational safety among workers.

21) Company:
Company in this context refers to the organization where the study was conducted. The workplace environment directly influences employee health outcomes, making it essential for companies to prioritize ergonomic education and training as part of their employee welfare programs to mitigate physical health risks associated with office work.

22) House:
House may relate to the broader context of workplace settings. Ergonomics is not confined to traditional office environments but extends to any 'house' of work. Promoting proper ergonomic practices in any workspace can contribute to reducing health-related complaints and achieving a higher quality of work life for employees.

23) Line:
Line typically represents the delineation of roles or responsibilities within the workplace context. Understanding the line between proper ergonomics and poor practices can help in training employees effectively, ensuring they are aware of the specific ergonomic practices that can prevent musculoskeletal disorders and optimize their work efficiency.

Other Science Concepts:

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Ergonomic Training Cuts Musculoskeletal Disorders in Office Workers’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Longitudinal studies, Upper limb, Statistical analysis, Lower limb, Control group, Psychological well-being, Inclusion criteria, Exclusion criteria, Experimental group, Study design, Office workers, Inter-rater reliability, Intervention group, Primary outcome measure, Between-group differences, Ethical approval, Cumulative Trauma Disorders, Occupational health, Risk factor, Musculoskeletal disorder, Lower back, Baseline characteristics, Intention to treat analysis, Work environment, Randomised controlled trial, Computer Users, Baseline values, Training intervention, DASS-21 questionnaire, Training program, Ergonomic training, Participatory training, Demographic characteristic.

Concepts being referred in other categories, contexts and sources.

Mouse, Chair.

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