Web-based office ergonomics intervention on work-related complaints: a field study.
The aim of this study was a proof of concept to examine the effects of a Web-based office ergonomics intervention on subjects' individual workplace adjustments. An intervention study was conducted with 24 office workers lasting 6 weeks with three consecutive phases (before, 1 and 5 weeks after the intervention). Employees used a purpose-made website for adjusting their computer workplaces without any personal support of ergonomics experts. Workplace measurements were taken directly on site and by analysing photos taken of the employee. Self-reported complaints were assessed by filling in a questionnaire. It was found that 96% of the employees changed their workplaces on their own and retained them mostly unchanged after the intervention. Furthermore, self-reported musculoskeletal complaints and headache symptoms decreased significantly after the intervention. These findings suggest an improvement of workplace conditions so that cost-effective ergonomic Web-based interventions appear promising in further research and application.
a Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors , D-44139 , Dortmund , Germany.
Marina
M
Meinert
Mirjam
M
König
Wolfgang
W
Jaschinski
D000328:Adult; D001248:Asthenopia / Q000517:prevention & control*; D016288:Computer Terminals; D006804:Ergonomics / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006261:Headache / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D059352:Musculoskeletal Pain / Q000517:prevention & control*; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000517:prevention & control*; D016272:Occupational Health; D017132:Workplace; D055815:Young Adult