ERGONOMICS in the UB Workplace:Intervention Study Summary

Sponsored by Health Science Chapter, UUP

Summary of Study Methods Survey of HSC members to identify range and

severity of symptoms across body regions. Recruit eight subjects with highest combined

scores. CAT team visits each subject to assess workstation

interface, seating and body positioning. Subjects visit CAT to try and select from a range of

interface adaptations. Selected equipment installed and subject trained

on use and related ergonomic strategies. Symptoms reported for six months post-

intervention.

Subject 1. Greatest improvement in eye, head and general fatigue, with substantial improvement in neck and shoulder symptoms.

Subject 2. Substantial alleviation across all reported symptoms, accompanied by onset of general fatigue.

Subject 3. Total elimination of most symptoms with substantial reduction on remaining two.

Subject 4. Minor to no improvement in some symptom with exacerbation of others.

Subject 5. Substantial reduction in most symptoms, with eventual extinction of some.

Subject 6. Substantial reduction of symptom severity in every body system.

CONCLUSIONS UB faculty and staff are working with a wide range of

symptoms and a high level of severity. Many are intensively using newer computer

workstations combined with older office furniture designed for using pencil and paper or typewriters.

Proper seating, positioning and interface technologies can greatly reduce the number and severity of symptoms.

Benefits include higher productivity, reduced accumulated trauma injuries, fewer absences and longer careers.

Wellness in the workplace includes proper ergonomics.