title: Effectiveness of computer ergonomics interventions for an engineering company: a program evaluation.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Ergonomic principles at the computer workstation may reduce the occurrence of work related injuries commonly associated with intensive computer use. A program implemented in 2001 by an occupational therapist and a physical therapist utilized these preventative measures with education about ergonomics, individualized evaluations of computer workstations, and recommendations for ergonomic and environmental changes.
  
  
  METHODS
  This study examined program outcomes and perceived effectiveness based on review of documents, interviews, and surveys of the employees and the plant manager.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The program was deemed successful as shown by 59% of all therapist recommendations and 74% of ergonomic recommendations being implemented by the company, with an 85% satisfaction rate for the ergonomic interventions and an overall employee satisfaction rate of 70%. Eighty-one percent of the physical problems reported by employees were resolved to their satisfaction one year later.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Successful implementation of ergonomics programs depend upon effective communication and education of the consumers, and the support, cooperation and collaboration of management and employees.
authors.affiliation: Cleveland State University, Cleveland, OH 44115, USA. g.goodman@csuohio.edu
authors.forename: Glenn
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Goodman
authors.forename: James
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Landis
authors.forename: Christina
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: George
authors.forename: Sheila
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: McGuire
authors.forename: Crystal
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Shorter
authors.forename: Michelle
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Sieminski
authors.forename: Tamika
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Wilson
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D003201:Computers; D003258:Consumer Behavior; D006804:Ergonomics; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009140:Musculoskeletal Diseases / Q000517:prevention & control*; D009788:Occupational Therapy; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities; D015397:Program Evaluation