title: The effects of office ergonomic training on musculoskeletal complaints, sickness absence, and psychological well-being: a cluster randomized control trial.
abstract: This study explored whether musculoskeletal complaints can be reduced by the provision of ergonomics education. A cluster randomized controlled trial study was conducted in which 3 units were randomized to intervention and received training and 3 units were given a leaflet. The effect of intervention on knowledge, workstation practices, musculoskeletal complaints, sickness absence, and psychological well-being were assessed at 6 and 12 months. Although there was no increment of knowledge among workers, significant improvements in workstation practices in the use of monitor, keyboard, and chair were observed. There were significant reductions in neck and upper and lower back complaints among workers but these did not translate into fewer days lost from work. Workers' stress was found to be significantly reduced across the studies. In conclusion, office ergonomics training can be beneficial in reducing musculoskeletal risks and stress among workers.
authors: Program of Industrial Psychology and Organizational Psychology, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Malaysia norashikin@fppsm.utm.my.
authors: Norashikin
authors: N
authors: Mahmud
authors: University of Sydney, Lidcombe, New South Wales, Australia.
authors: Dianna T
authors: DT
authors: Kenny
authors: National Institutes of Occupational Safety and Health, Bangi, Malaysia.
authors: Raemy
authors: R
authors: Md Zein
authors: National Institutes of Occupational Safety and Health, Bangi, Malaysia.
authors: Siti Nurani
authors: SN
authors: Hassan
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D016000:Cluster Analysis; D006804:Ergonomics; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007318:Inservice Training; D008297:Male; D009140:Musculoskeletal Diseases; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000517:prevention & control*; D010549:Personal Satisfaction; D018582:Sick Leave; D055815:Young Adult