Computer vision syndrome and its associated ergonomic factors among bank workers

Abstract

Objectives. This study aimed to describe the prevalence of ergonomic factors associated with computer vision syndrome (CVS), and knowledge and practices of computer usage among bank workers in the Cape Coast Metropolis, Ghana. Methods. A comprehensive eye examination was performed for 139 bankers in the Cape Coast Metropolis. Measurements of ergonomic practices at workstations were carried out and self-administered questionnaires were used to collect socio-demographic data, symptoms of CVS and associated factors as well as knowledge, attitudes and practices of the bankers on CVS. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were carried out to compute the different proportions and relevant associations. Results. Headaches (73.4%), eyestrain (65.5%) and itching (63.3%) were the most common reported symptoms. The prevalence of CVS in the study population was 71.2% with a high level of poor ergonomic practices (78.4%) at computer workstations. With regard to knowledge, attitudes and practices of the participants on CVS, 68.3% of the participants had low levels of knowledge on CVS, while 90.6% had negative attitudes towards CVS and 46.0% of the participants had poor practices. Conclusion. Bankers had a high prevalence of CVS. Ergonomic practices, females and computer usage were all associated significantly with the presence of CVS.