A replicated field intervention study evaluating the impact of a highly adjustable chair and office ergonomics training on visual symptoms.
OBJECTIVE
Examine the effects of two office ergonomics interventions in reducing visual symptoms at a private sector worksite.


METHODS
A quasi-experimental study design evaluated the effects of a highly adjustable chair with office ergonomics training intervention (CWT group) and the training only (TO group) compared with no intervention (CO group). Data collection occurred 2 and 1 month(s) pre-intervention and 2, 6 and 12 months post-intervention. During each data collection period, a work environment and health questionnaire (covariates) and daily health diary (outcomes) were completed. Multilevel statistical models tested hypotheses.


RESULTS
Both the training only intervention (p<0.001) and the chair with training intervention (p=0.01) reduced visual symptoms after 12 months.


CONCLUSIONS
The office ergonomics training alone and coupled with a highly adjustable chair reduced visual symptoms. In replicating results from a public sector worksite at a private sector worksite the external validity of the interventions is strengthened, thus broadening its generalizability.
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Analytic and Field Evaluations Branch, 1095 Willowdale Dr Road, MS-1811, Morgantown, WV 26505, USA. cammiemenendez@yahoo.com
Cammie Chaumont
CC
Menéndez
Benjamin C
BC
Amick
Michelle
M
Robertson
Lianna
L
Bazzani
Kelly
K
DeRango
Ted
T
Rooney
Anne
A
Moore
D000328:Adult; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D001248:Asthenopia / Q000517:prevention & control*; D016009:Chi-Square Distribution; D003201:Computers; D015352:Dry Eye Syndromes / Q000517:prevention & control; D004867:Equipment Design; D006804:Ergonomics; D005260:Female; D006266:Health Education; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D007374:Interior Design and Furnishings; D016014:Linear Models; D016015:Logistic Models; D008297:Male; D009140:Musculoskeletal Diseases / Q000517:prevention & control; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000517:prevention & control*; D016272:Occupational Health; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D017132:Workplace