title: The FITS model office ergonomics program: a model for best practice.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  An effective office ergonomics program can predict positive results in reducing musculoskeletal injury rates, enhancing productivity, and improving staff well-being and job satisfaction.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  Its objective is to provide a systematic solution to manage the potential risk of musculoskeletal disorders among computer users in an office setting. A FITS Model office ergonomics program is developed.
  
  
  METHODS
  The FITS Model Office Ergonomics Program has been developed which draws on the legislative requirements for promoting the health and safety of workers using computers for extended periods as well as previous research findings. The Model is developed according to the practical industrial knowledge in ergonomics, occupational health and safety management, and human resources management in Hong Kong and overseas.
  
  
  RESULTS
  This paper proposes a comprehensive office ergonomics program, the FITS Model, which considers (1) Furniture Evaluation and Selection; (2) Individual Workstation Assessment; (3) Training and Education; (4) Stretching Exercises and Rest Break as elements of an effective program.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  An experienced ergonomics practitioner should be included in the program design and implementation. Through the FITS Model Office Ergonomics Program, the risk of musculoskeletal disorders among computer users can be eliminated or minimized, and workplace health and safety and employees' wellness enhanced.
authors.affiliation: Chim's Ergonomics and Safety Limited, 15/F, No. 80 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, China. Tel.: +852 3625 2024; Fax: +852 3487 1975; E-mail: jchim@my-ergonomics.com.
authors.forename: Justine M Y
authors.initials: JM
authors.lastname: Chim
mesh_terms: D006804:Ergonomics / Q000379:methods*; D055317:Evidence-Based Practice; D006293:Health Promotion; D006723:Hong Kong; D006801:Humans; D007318:Inservice Training; D007374:Interior Design and Furnishings; D008838:Microcomputers; D052580:Muscle Stretching Exercises; D009140:Musculoskeletal Diseases / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D016272:Occupational Health / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D012146:Rest; D018570:Risk Assessment; D012307:Risk Factors; D017132:Workplace
keywords: Display screen equipment; computer user; employee wellness; musculoskeletal disorders; occupational health