Office Ergonomics: Deficiencies in Computer Workstation Design

Ashraf A. Shikdar, Mahmoud A. Al-Kindi*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

41 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

The objective of this research was to study and identify ergonomic deficiencies in computer workstation design in typical offices. Physical measurements and a questionnaire were used to study 40 workstations. Major ergonomic deficiencies were found in physical design and layout of the workstations, employee postures, work practices, and training. The consequences in terms of user health and other problems were significant. Forty-five percent of the employees used nonadjustable chairs, 48% of computers faced windows, 90% of the employees used computers more than 4 hrs/day, 45% of the employees adopted bent and unsupported back postures, and 20% used office tables for computers. Major problems reported were eyestrain (58%), shoulder pain (45%), back pain (43%), arm pain (35%), wrist pain (30%), and neck pain (30%). These results indicated serious ergonomic deficiencies in office computer workstation design, layout, and usage. Strategies to reduce or eliminate ergonomic deficiencies in computer workstation design were suggested.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)215-223
Number of pages9
JournalInternational Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics
Volume13
Issue number2
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Jan 2007

Keywords

  • Computer workstation
  • Employee satisfaction
  • Ergonomic deficiencies
  • Health
  • Problems
  • Work posture
  • Work practices

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Safety, Risk, Reliability and Quality
  • Safety Research
  • Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

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