The feasibility and accuracy of using a remote method to assess computer workstations

Details

• Personal Author:
  Baker NA ; Jacobs K
• Description:
  OBJECTIVE: The objective was to test the accuracy of using remote methods (tele-ergonomics) to identify potential mismatches between workers and their computer workstations. BACKGROUND: Remote access to ergonomic assessments and interventions using two-way interactive communications, tele-ergonomics, increases the ability to deliver computer ergonomic services. However, this mode of delivery must first be tested for accuracy. METHOD: In this single group study, the computer workstations of 30 participants who reported mild to moderate discomfort were remotely assessed using photographs taken by a research assistant and the self-report Computer Workstation Checklist (CWC) completed by the study participant. Mismatches identified remotely by an ergonomics expert were compared to results obtained from an onsite computer workstation visit completed by the same expert. RESULTS: We accurately identified 92% of mismatches. The method was more sensitive (0.97) than specific (0.88), indicating that experts using the remote method were likely to overidentify mismatches. CONCLUSION: These results suggest that an expert using the self-reported CWC combined with workstation photographs can accurately identify mismatches between workers and their computer workstations. APPLICATION: Remote assessment is a promising method to improve access to computer workstation ergonomic assessments. [Description provided by NIOSH]
• Subjects:
  Aging Computers Ergonomics Men Musculoskeletal Diseases Musculoskeletal System Occupational Health Preventive Medicine Safety Women Workplace

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• Keywords:
  Age-groups Analytical-processes Author Keywords: Ergonomics Humans Muscle-stress Musculoskeletal-system Musculoskeletal-system-disorders Musculoskeletal Symptoms Posture Preventive-medicine Telehealth Validity Work-areas Workers

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• ISSN:
  0018-7208
• Document Type:
  Text
• Funding:
  Grant
• Genre:
  Journal Article
• Place as Subject:
  Massachusetts ; OSHA Region 1 ; OSHA Region 3 ; Pennsylvania
• CIO:
  National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
• Topic:
  Workplace Safety & Health
• Location:
  North America
• Volume:
  56
• Issue:
  4
• NIOSHTIC Number:
  nn:20044731
• Citation:
  Hum Factors 2014 Jun; 56(4):784-788
• Contact Point Address:
  Nancy A. Baker, Department of Occupational Therapy, 5012 Forbes Tower, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260
• Email:
  nab36@pitt.edu
• Federal Fiscal Year:
  2014
• NORA Priority Area:
  Services
• Performing Organization:
  University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
• Peer Reviewed:
  True
• Start Date:
  20080901
• Source Full Name:
  Human Factors
• End Date:
  20130831
• Collection(s):
  National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
• Main Document Checksum:
  urn:sha-512:b992bd0bc54b43e63a7454813ce3d128adde3f6e70115f959d117eaee58ef4551f4a71db790cbc2c7b8ab287079d244f220c991bf6d9e57e18e77f1ff87c24b8
• Download URL:
  https://stacks.cdc.gov/view/cdc/200369/cdc_200369_DS1.pdf
• File Type:
  [PDF - 398.96 KB ]