Ergonomic evaluation and construction of a reference workplace in dental hygiene: a case study.
OBJECTIVE
In an earlier survey study, a high frequency of complaints from the neck and shoulder were found in dental hygienists employed by the National Dental Service in Jönköping, Sweden. As a consequence of these survey findings, a new in-depth study of the workplace of one Swedish dental hygienist was performed to identify critical factors causing work-related pain in the neck and shoulders. This also served as a pilot study for testing simple ergonomic methods suitable for field studies in dental hygiene.


METHODS
Several workplace evaluation methods were used: time distribution study, posture targeting diagrams, biomechanical computations, serial photography, and videorecording.


RESULTS
All methods showed the same general picture--fixed working postures, a sparse movement pattern, work within a very limited work space, and long-standing static load on the neck and shoulder muscles.


CONCLUSIONS
As a result of these findings, a reference workplace was designed to provide an ergonomically desirable environment. The load was reduced by means of a specific horseshoe-shaped support for the patient chair and a special armrest for the operator chair.
Oberg
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Department of Biomechanics and Orthopaedic Technology, University College of Health Sciences, Jönköping, Sweden.
D020968:Brachial Plexus Neuritis / Q000517:prevention & control; D003748:Dental Equipment; D003756:Dental Hygienists; D003770:Dental Offices; D004867:Equipment Design; D006804:Ergonomics; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000517:prevention & control*; D011187:Posture; D013996:Time and Motion Studies