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Publication
A case study of ergonomics encompassing white-collar workers: anthropometry, furniture dimensions, working posture and musculoskeletal disorders
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Advisor(s)
Abstract(s)
Regardless of their specific business, white collar workers have some factors in common:
they work seated without moving for a long time, they use certain arm and hand muscles excessively,
and they tend to keep a poor body posture. The resulting Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) produce
discomfort, and even pain. This study aimed at an ergonomic assessment of white collars of a
Portuguese company – to identify the most critical points in old furniture designs and working posture
habits. An evaluation was done in the administrative department using a random sample; the
anthropometric and furniture measurements were taken and compared. The RULA method was used
to evaluate the risk arising from adoption of a poor posture at the workplace. The results obtained show
a prevalence of symptoms of MSDs. The furniture is oversized in most cases. Adoption of a poor
posture at the workplace requires a short-term intervention. There is a significant association between
MSDs and wrong-dimensioned furniture, besides habit to adopt wrong postures. This company (as
many other SME’s) must change the old style office furniture by one with dimensions matching
workers’ anthropometry, and provide training on best practices to maintain good posture at work
Description
Keywords
Office workers Occupational health Ergonomics