Reducing ergonomic injuries for librarians using a participatory approach

Abstract

This study utilized a participatory ergonomics approach to examine the ergonomic hazards and reduce musculoskeletal symptoms for librarians in the East Baton Rouge Parish Main Library. A variety of research activities were conducted, including: ergonomics training and tests, observations, work environment and health questionnaires, and focus group discussions. A total of 39 employees from 9 different divisions in the Library participated in the study. The results of pre- and post-training ergonomics knowledge tests indicate significant improvement of librarians' understanding of ergonomics principles. The questionnaire responses for both 2-month-post- and 8-month-post- ergonomics training compared against those before the training have shown positive improvements in ratings of the presence and severity of a majority of the musculoskeletal symptoms, the design of computer workstations and manual material handling tasks, as well as perceived control over the work environment. With the identification of ergonomic hazards through RULA (Rapid Upper Limb Assessment) and REBA (Rapid Entire Body Assessment) observations as well as focus group discussions, the study findings accomplished the project's overall objective of assisting librarians with improvement of ergonomics in the workplace. The results of this study provide a necessary foundation for future long-term study of participatory ergonomics to reduce musculoskeletal injuries and disorders for librarians. Relevance to industryLibrary work entails prolonged use of computers and other electronic tools, as well as repetitive handling of books, boxes, and other materials, which has exposed librarians to a significant risk of developing musculoskeletal injuries and disorders. A participatory ergonomics approach might be effective in improving librarians’ understanding and application of ergonomics principles, and subsequently reducing musculoskeletal symptoms.