Ergonomic Practices Research Articles

Measure the Effects of Cognitive Ergonomics on Industrial Employee Wellbeing in Kathmandu Valley

Ergonomics serves as a strategic approach aimed at diminishing occupational disease rates and enhancing overall working conditions to boost employee productivity. Acknowledging the pivotal role of employee participation in fostering positive organizational relations, this study delves into the impact of cognitive ergonomics on employee performance within Nepalese industrial settings. Employing an explanatory research design anchored in the Theory of Ergonomics, the investigation aims to unveil the correlations between work stress, workload, decision-making, and communication, and their collective influence on employee well-being. Focusing on industry employees in the Kathmandu Valley through probability sampling, a purposive sampling technique was employed, utilizing structured questionnaires administered to 161 respondents from Balaju, Patan, and Bhaktapur industries via the KOBO toolbox. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was utilized to analyze the effects of cognitive ergonomics practices, employing SPSS and AMOS applications to scrutinize relationships between dependent and independent variables. Findings shows that among four components of cognitive ergonomic such as work stress, workload, decision making and communication examine the significant impact on employee wellbeing which gives theoretical relevance in terms of theory of ergonomics. In conclusion, the adoption of ergonomics in the workplace is crucial for improving productivity by addressing health-related issues and fostering an employee-friendly environment, ultimately enhancing overall employee performance.

Ergonomics in the operation-theatre: a healthcare provider-based cross-sectional study.

Performing surgery is a task that demands mental stability, precision, and vigilant eyes, along with resilient physical strength, as surgeons and those who assist the surgeons have to assume a sustained, difficult posture that can go on for hours. About 23-100% of surgeons report musculoskeletal discomfort that originates from poor ergonomics. Ethical clearance for the study was obtained. This cross-sectional study, conducted in a tertiary centre among the healthcare providers working inside the operating room, spanned from 1 March 2023, to 26 June 2023. Systematic sampling was applied, and consent was obtained before data collection. A structured questionnaire was used as the study tool, and the collected data was analysed in SPSS 20. A total of 98 personnel responded, among which 67.3% were males and 32.7% were females, with a median age of 36 (32-42) years. Only 6.1% of the workers had received training on ergonomics. The prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders was 82.7%, and more than two-thirds of the participant's life outside of work was affected by this. More than two-thirds (69.4%) felt their work environment was not safe, and surgeons performing open surgery were at lower odds of feeling that their work environment was safe. There is a high prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among healthcare providers working inside the operating room, and the majority had their body position deviated from neutral most of the time during the surgery. There is a deficiency in ergonomic practices, which demands an effective intervention.

Prevalence and symptomatology of musculoskeletal disorders in dentists with a focus on ergonomics and self-care

Research highlights the growing importance of occupational health, noting that work-related illnesses are becoming increasingly prevalent as global populations age and work longer.The study focuses on occupational musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among dental professionals, particularly those who graduated from the Regional Autonomous University of the Andes (UNIANDES). Its aim is to assess the prevalence and contributing factors to MSDs, promoting ergonomic practices to mitigate these issues.The study employed a quantitative, non-experimental, cross-sectional approach, using the Nordic Questionnaire to collect data. Participants were surveyed on demographic and occupational variables, and the results were analyzed using descriptive statistics. It revealed that female dentists and those between 20 and 30 years old are particularly susceptible to these disorders.Many respondents indicated that their symptoms led to changes in their work habits or even job changes. The duration and impact of these symptoms varied, with some reporting chronic problems that affect their ability to work.The research underscores the need to improve ergonomic training and practices in dental education and professional settings. It suggests adopting preventive measures, such as ergonomic workstations, regular breaks, and physical exercises, to reduce the incidence of these conditions

Postshift Hand Fatigue in Emergency Service Nurses

Objective: Hand functionality, defined as the ability to perform tasks requiring fine motor skills, is crucial for emergency service nurses as it directly affects their ability to perform tasks requiring fine motor skills, such as administering medication, operating equipment, and providing patient care. This study, therefore, aimed to investigate the effects of an 8‐h work shift on hand functionality and perceived exertion among emergency service nurses.Method: Employing a cross‐sectional design, the study measured manual dexterity, handgrip, and pinch strength, and perceived exertion using the Minnesota Manual Dexterity Test (MMDT), Nine‐Hole Peg Test (9‐HPT), Handgrip Strength Test, Pinch Strength Test, and the Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) Scale. Data were collected from 34 emergency service nurses both before and after their shifts.Results: The present findings indicated significant postshift declines in manual dexterity as evidenced by the MMDT and 9‐HPT, with the former demonstrating a large effect size and the latter a small effect size. No significant changes were observed in handgrip and pinch strength. Notably, Borg RPE scores increased significantly postshift, indicating substantial perceived fatigue with a nearly perfect effect size. Correlation analyses revealed significant relationships between increased physical exertion and changes in hand dexterity and strength, underscoring the physical demands placed on nurses during typical work shifts.Conclusions: These findings highlight the need for healthcare institutions to reassess work schedules and ergonomic practices to mitigate fatigue and preserve nurses’ hand functionality, thereby enhancing patient care and nurse well‐being. The study calls for further research to explore more comprehensive strategies aimed at reducing the occupational strain on emergency service nurses.

Analysis of occupational risks in dental technicians

Introduction: Dental technicians are exposed to various occupational risks that can seriously affect their health. These risks include ergonomic, physical, chemical and biological factors, which can cause significant health problems and affect the quality of work life. Therefore, this study seeks to evaluate the risks to which dental technicians are exposed in their work environment and propose preventive and control measures to mitigate the negative effects on their health.Method: A systematic review of the available literature on occupational risks in dental technicians was carried out. Additionally, Saaty's AHP method was applied to determine the relative prevalence of risks and their impact on occupational health.Results: The review revealed that dental technicians face significant exposure to ergonomic (musculoskeletal pain), physical (noise, vibrations, thermal radiation), chemical (exposure to toxic substances) and biological (infections from poorly disinfected prostheses) risks. While analysis using Saaty's AHP method has identified that musculoskeletal disorders, particularly neck, shoulder and back pain, have a higher prevalence compared to other risks.Conclusions: It is essential to adopt a comprehensive approach to occupational risk management in the dental field. It has been recommended to improve ergonomic practices, increase training in occupational safety and strengthen prevention and control policies. Additionally, continued research should be encouraged to adapt and improve preventive strategies based on emerging data, with particular attention to musculoskeletal disorders

Knowledge of Computer Ergonomics among Third and Final year Dental Students: A Cross-sectional Survey from Nagpur, India

Introduction: During the Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the world has experienced many changes, including increased computer and internet usage. Spending more time on computers can lead to the development of various postural problems, resulting in pain and inefficiency in the workplace. Aim: To assess the knowledge of computer ergonomics among third and final year Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) students at VSPM’s dental college in Nagpur, Maharashtra, India. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional, questionnairebased study was conducted on third and final year students between November 2020 and February 2021 in the Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology at VSPMDCRC, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India. Ethical clearance was obtained from the Institutional Ethical Committee (IEC/VSPMDCRC/15/2020). A self-administered questionnaire, formulated and validated by independent subject experts, was used. A total of 216 students were included in the study over a two-month period. Informed consent was obtained from the students. The questionnaire consisted of 34 questions on computer usage and knowledge of ergonomics, and the responses were recorded. Descriptive statistics were performed using Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0 for Windows. Quantitative data were expressed as mean and standard deviation. The association between categorical variables was checked using the Chi-square test, with a significance level set at 5%. Results: The mean age of the students was 22.20 years total of 216 students, including 158 females and 58 males, were included in the study. The results showed that 20.37% of third year students (44/96) and 31.48% of final year students (68/96) were aware of the term "ergonomics". The majority of students were unaware of the principles of ergonomics. However, 169 (78.2%) students knew the correct position of the head and neck while using a computer. Additionally, 164 (75%) students were aware of the need for lower back support, 167 (77.3%) were aware of the placement of input devices, and 174 (80.6%) were aware of the alignment of devices. Moreover, 168 (77.8%) subject knew that the monitor and working surface should be glare-free, and 120 (55.6%) were aware that a sloped desk surface is required for reading or writing. Furthermore, 157 (72.7%) subjects used a headset or speakerphone while writing, typing, or talking on the phone, and 164 (75.9%) subjects took regular eye breaks. Conclusion: The present study highlights a lack of practical knowledge and application of ergonomics among the participants. There is a need to prioritise creating awareness and developing healthy ergonomics practices among dental students through Continuing Dental Education programs (CDE). The authors also recommend that the curriculum for healthcare courses should incorporate healthy ergonomics practices as a part of the curriculum.

Effect of Ergonomic Practices on Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) symptoms among undergraduate and postgraduate IT students of University of Chakwal

Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) is common nowadays among students due to constant working on computer. In addition to various visual and ocular disorders, there is also periodic rise in their musculoskeletal problems. Objective: To determine the effect of visual ergonomics on CVS among IT university students of Chakwal. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was done in IT department of the University of Chakwal from October-December 2021. About 65 undergraduate and postgraduate IT students studying in the University of Chakwal were enrolled through consecutive sampling. Students using computers and having symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), refractive error and convergence insufficiency were included. The data were gathered for visual effects in response to different ergonomics and was analysed by SPSS 25.0 and Microsoft Excel 2016. P ≤0.05 was taken as significant. Results: Of the 65 students, most (72.3%) were undergraduate students. Almost 55.4% complained of severe neck / shoulder pain and dryness of eyes. 39% used to do computer work for 1-4 hours / day. Students working for 1-4 hours at home had less blinking and watering of eyes in addition to eyestrain (p< 0.05). There was significant association of mild headache (p<0.02) and minimal photophobia (p<0.05) with 1-4 hours computer work at home. Taking break up to 1 hour had significant association with mildness of eye burning, crossing and redness (p<0.05). Conclusions: IT students had moderate to severe dryness of eyes, neck and shoulder pain. Not spending more than four consecutive hours on computer work and taking at least one hour break is imperative to avoid severe symptoms

Ergonomic evaluation of work sites in an aerospace maquiladora company

Ergonomics is a discipline that contributes to the quality of life of people, through the study and understanding of interactions between humans, the environment that surrounds them and the profession. The practice of ergonomics in manmachine-environment systems is essential to eliminate risk factors associated with the presentation of musculoskeletal disorders (MSD), the reduction of occupational diseases and comply with current regulations, this being the objective of the present study. During the investigation, an exhaustive analysis of the different jobs was carried out and the ergonomic risk factors present in each of them were identified (inadequate postures, repetitive movements, excessive forces and unfavorable environmental conditions) and their level at through a specific evaluation method. Finally, specific intervention measures were proposed and applied to eliminate or reduce the level of risk. These measures included the redesign of work stations, the modification of equipment, tools, the implementation of active breaks and the training of staff in ergonomic practices. In conclusion, the results support the importance of incorporating ergonomics as an integral practice in work environments, in order to protect the health and well-being of workers, as well as improve the efficiency and productivity of organizations.

Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Ergonomics Principles among Undergraduates Studying Bachelor of Dental Surgery

Introduction: Ergonomics is the scientific discipline concerned with the understanding of interactions among humans and other elements of a system, and the profession that applies theory, principles, data and methods to design in order to optimize human well-being and overall system performance. Successful application of ergonomics, assures high productivity, evasion of illnesses and injuries, leading to increased satisfaction among workers. On the other hand, unsuccessful application can lead to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among dental professionals. Objective: The objective of this study was to assess knowledge, attitude, and practice of ergonomics principles among undergraduates studying bachelor of dental surgery. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study design was carried out among 172 students studying bachelor of dental surgery at Kathmandu Medical College, Kathmandu Nepal. Census technique was used to collect the data. A structured questionnaire was used as a data collection tool. Results: The study revealed that nearly (69) 40% of the students had a knowledge about the ergonomic principles. Whereas, (112) 65% students of all the years as a whole had a good attitude towards ergonomics. But only (34) 20% students as a whole were using the principles of ergonomics into practice. Conclusions: Although, (69) 40% had knowledge about ergonomics in dentistry. Only (34) 20% of the students had a practice of ergonomics . Thus, improvement in the level of knowledge is required but more importantly the application of knowledge into practice is recommended for better dental practice.

Development and Validation of Perception of Seating Ergonomics Questionnaire: A Study on Klang Valley Drivers in Malaysia

Driving is an instrumental activity of daily living that has become an essential mode of transportation. Good ergonomic practices are vital to ensure successful driving. This study aimed to develop and validate a questionnaire that could be used to determine how personal, environmental, and occupational factors influenced drivers' perceptions of seating ergonomics. This cross-sectional study was conducted in June-July 2022 among 250 drivers in the Klang Valley, Malaysia, recruited via an online survey. The participants completed the questionnaire by assessing different constructs in the Person-Environment-Occupation model and perceptions of seating ergonomics. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was conducted, followed by a path analysis. Test-retest reliability was assessed in 30 participants. The final EFA generated a four-factor structure that accounted for 61.69% of the variance. The final version of the questionnaire contained 19 items. The Cronbach's alpha values for all the constructs were above 0.7, and all the intraclass correlation coefficients were above 0.8. Based on the path analysis results, personal and occupational factors emerged as significant predictors for drivers' perceptions of seating ergonomics. The developed questionnaire was found to be valid and reliable.

Defeminization of practicing dentists: A national perspective

Madam, The dental profession has witnessed a progressive shift where female dentists are becoming more prevalent in many countries, including Pakistan. This trend, known as the feminization of dentistry1, can be attributed to changing societal and economic perceptions, increased acceptance of diverse gender roles, and the recognition of the benefits of adopting feminine traits in the dental profession.2 In Pakistan, the transition began in the early 1990s when the quota system limiting seats for women in medical and dental schools was abolished. Currently, around 70% of undergraduate dental students in Pakistan are female.2 However, despite the promising number of female dental students, there is a significant drop in postgraduate training and professional practice. Only 5% of graduating female dentists pursue postgraduate training, and only half of the registered female dentists work.3 The reasons for this decline include a glass ceiling effect, which hinders women's advancement in their careers, the lack of female representation in leadership roles, the absence of female mentorship at the postgraduate level, and dual family and domestic responsibilities. Additionally, female dentists may face bias and preference towards their male counterparts in high-status specialities, impacting their promotional opportunities and patient preferences.4,5 Persistence of societal pressure and traditional gender roles also contribute to the dropout rate of female dentists in Pakistan. Many young women are often pressured to prioritize family obligations over professional commitments, leading them to leave the dental profession early. Moreover, the absence of part-time options further limits their ability to balance family responsibilities with dental practice. To address these challenges and enable the sustained involvement of female dentists, several measures are necessary. Increasing female representation in leadership roles, make leadership part of the educational curriculum, providing mentorship opportunities, and establishing strong social support systems for women are crucial. Reforms should also focus on improving ergonomics in dental practice, highlighting cultural loopholes for gender biases, equity issues and implementing policies that support working mothers, such as flexible working hours, adequate maternity leave and family care facilities. While efforts have been made to increase the number of female dental students, there is still a long way to go in creating an inclusive and supportive environment for practicing female dentists in Pakistan. By addressing the root causes of the gender disparity and implementing necessary reforms, Pakistani society can break the glass ceiling and allow future generations of women to contribute fully to the field of dental healthcare.

Knowledge Attitudes and Practices in Ergometry Among Nurses at the Bafoussam Regional Hospital

Occupational medicine was born in France after the First World War and gradually the range of occupational diseases and accidents widened. Today, the community is concerned about the well-being of the workplace, and thinks in terms of occupational health. Major surveys identify not only the physical but also the psychological state of health of employees. Nurses are particularly a population at risk because of their often-morbid working conditions. The objective of our study was to raise awareness and show the importance of ergonomics by assessing practical knowledge and attitudes in ergonomics among nurses. To this end, a descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from March 15 to June 20 at the Regional Hospital of Bafoussam (HRB) on sample of 110 nurses. A face-to-face questionnaire was administered for data collection. The data collected was analyzed by software Epi Info 7.2.2.7 and presented in table and graph form. In total, of the 110 nurses surveyed, 58, 18% [CI: 48, 39%- 67, 52%] (64/110) had a poor level of knowledge in ergonomics. 74, 55% [CI: 65, 35- 82, 37%] (82/110) had harmful ergonomic practices. 57, 27% [CI: 47, 48- 66, 66%] (63/110) suffered from musculoskeletal disorders. Ergonomics practices were significantly associated with the musculoskeletal disorders at the nurse of the Bafoussam Regional Hospital [OR: 3, 07; CI: 1, 13% - 10, 04%; P= 0,028]. Ergonomics practices are not well known in the nursing profession, and nurses need training to improve performance and reduce the occurrence of occupational accidents.

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders among otolaryngology-head and neck surgery residents

PurposeSurgical residents are at high risk for work-related musculoskeletal disorders which can impact surgical training and overall quality of life. We sought to assess musculoskeletal symptoms among current United States otolaryngology-head and neck surgery residents. We focused on the upper extremity given fine motor control for microsurgical procedures and increased keyboarding requirements. This study builds on previous research by evaluating setting attribution and attitudes toward ergonomics among otolaryngology residents. Materials and methodsA web-based, cross-sectional survey incorporating Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire and ergonomics-related questions was sent to otolaryngology residency program directors in September of 2021. Descriptive statistics, Spearman's correlation, logistic regression, and comparison of proportions were utilized. ResultsOverall, 148 otolaryngology residents completed the survey; 70 were female (45 %), 83 male (54 %), and 1 non-binary (0.6 %). MSK symptoms were reported in the neck (77.0 %), lower back (45.5 %), and upper back (31.8 %) most frequently. Symptoms were work-related for 80 % of residents, with 84.7 % deemed operating-room-related. Some required treatment (14.5 %) or formal evaluation (11.0 %) of their injury. Injuries prevented residents from working (7.4 %), operating (9.5 %), and performing activities of daily living (27.0 %). Many reported they would use ergonomic equipment (94.2 %), dictation software (74.1 %), and scribes (81.3 %) if available. ConclusionsDespite increased surgical ergonomic awareness, musculoskeletal symptoms are still prevalent among otolaryngology residents. Nearly 1 in 9 residents required evaluation and treatment of their musculoskeletal symptoms, and one third reported lacking various ergonomic measures. Given the high prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders, ergonomic practices for O-HNS trainees should be emphasized by residency programs.

Prevalence of Hip Flexor Tightness in Young Adults

This study investigates hip flexor tightness in young adults aged 18-25, focusing on its prevalence and potential contributing factors. A representative sample of 385 participants was involved, and 94.3% of them showed tightness. Sedentary behavior and decreased physical activity were identified as contributing factors. The findings emphasize the importance of addressing hip flexor tightness, as it can lead to discomfort, compromised movement patterns, and decreased quality of life. The study emphasizes the need for interventions promoting regular physical activity and ergonomic practices. Further research is recommended to explore the causal factors and long-term consequences of hip flexor tightness.

Ergonomics in online education of medical undergraduates: A challenge to post-COVID transformation in educational activities.

Practicing incorrect postures in online and virtual education during the COVID-19 pandemic can cause significant study-related musculoskeletal problems among students. This study evaluated the knowledge, attitude, and practice of sitting posture and computer ergonomics and study-related musculoskeletal problems in undergraduates who followed online education during the pandemic. A cross-sectional online survey among a cohort of Sri Lankan medical undergraduates was conducted using a structured questionnaire with 56 multiple-choice or Yes/No type questions. Of the 410 participants, over 85% (n = 362) knew the correct posture to sit on the chair type that they frequently used for studies. However, the majority (n = 378,92.20%) practised incorrect sitting postures in which leaning forward (n = 319,77.80%) was the most common suboptimal posture. Knowledge (n = 161,40%) and practice (n = 167,40.73%) on taking frequent breaks were poor among the majority. Their knowledge on computer ergonomics was good (>80%, n = 304) except for the recommended eye-to-screen distance (n = 129,31.46%). Importantly, ∼50% (n = 206) did not practise the recommended eye-to-screen distance. Use of non-adjustable chairs with no armrests (n = 346,84.39%) and smartphones (n = 354,86.34%) were identified as the main factors which hindered correct practices. Study-related pain/discomfort reported by the majority (n = 241,58.78%) is potentially due to suboptimal ergonomics. Their attitude toward learning and practicing correct ergonomics in home workstations was good (n = 383,93.41%). Poor practice of posture and computer ergonomics, despite the good knowledge and attitude is possibly due to the suboptimal work environments. Introducing simple practical measures to facilitate ergonomically appropriate work environments is mandatory in virtual education to prevent study-related musculoskeletal problems.

Knowledge, attitude, and practice of ergonomics among dental clinicians in a Philippine private university

Knowledge, attitude, and practice of ergonomics among dental clinicians in a Philippine private university

Value of including loupes in prosthodontic and endodontic components of dental degrees: a systematic review.

Background It is crucial dental students graduate with sound knowledge of endodontics and prosthodontics. The use of loupes is important for these due to their intricate nature, but there is currently no standardisation of curricula.Objective This systematic review investigates the value of including loupes in completing dental degrees and their benefits to dental students.Methods Literature was searched from inception to February 2022 in PubMed, Embase and Scopus. Articles included were primary studies of dental students studying endodontics or prosthodontics, which had outcomes related to the value of utilising loupes in learning, clinical application and ergonomics.Results A total of 1,489 articles were retrieved, of which 14 relevant articles were identified. These articles discussed student perceptions and the impact on visual acuity, ergonomic practices and dental procedures. Overall, students perceived that loupes increased self-confidence and allowed a greater operative view but were initially difficult to use. Using loupes resulted in greater visual acuity than no magnification and improved ergonomic practices by reducing neck angulation and improving posture. Students also received better grades when using loupes during cavity access preparation or root canal therapy.Conclusion The use of loupes by dental students can be beneficial if there is initial teaching on their use.

Human factors issues at selected workplaces in Nigeria: practice, status and future research needs

Human factor or ergonomics animates a productive system with the capability of a community of production factors that are not productive. The current paper aims to identify research and practice issues of human factors (HF) in the existing literature on Nigerian scenarios. The specific objectives include conducting a review on ergonomics awareness, collating thought-provoking lived experiences gained from human factors practice across sectors of the economy, highlighting their status, and offering valuable tips on the emerging future of HF for workplaces in Nigeria. Understanding HF issues helps to plan and improve productivity at workplaces. The issues treated herein were topical subjects in recent debates about the COVID-19 era, work evolution, human factors, or ergonomics (E) practice in Nigeria. This review article applied a cross-sectional approach involving the descriptive survey and qualitative analytical methods. Analysis carried out incorporated computation of frequency of publication on each issue, which aided the discussion on status. Findings have shown that knowledge or awareness of HF/E is low, and applying the practice at work positions is equally low in Nigeria. Furthermore, the results suggested an insignificant rise in the status of HF/E by research studies. Surreptitiously, the high prospects for growth of HF/E and the ancillary factors like AI and robotics are foreshadowed in low levels of both practice and awareness. The analysis mentioned that the rising frequency of HF/E issues at the workplace has all-inclusive and mutually exclusive implications for the employee. The study’s outcome can contribute to positive change in organizational productivity, product design and process design since scientific research on the gaps can facilitate advancement in knowledge.

Risk factors of digital eye strain among computer users at Al-Baha University

Background: Digital eye strain (DES) affects an estimated 60 million people worldwide, with a higher prevalence among populations that are occupationally reliant on digital display devices.Aim: This study investigated risk factors of DES and ergonomic practices among computer users at Al-Baha University.Setting: The study was conducted among computer users at Al-Baha University.Methods: This study used a descriptive cross-sectional design and data were gathered using self-administered questionnaires.Results: A total of 360 computer users participated (mean age: 36.33 years, standard deviation [s.d.]: 7.08). The lifetime and daily computer usage were 8.38 (s.d.: = 1.04) years and 4.37 (s.d.: = 2.07) hours, respectively, with 30% of respondents having used computers for more than 10 years. The baseline total eye complaints score was either mild or moderate for 64.7% and severe for 35% of the sample. The total workstation design score was poor for 47.1% and fair for 35.5% of the sample. The regression analysis of potential DES risk factors found statistically significant coefficients for the duration of daily computer use, use of contact lenses, poor ergonomic practices, poor workstation design and use of non-prescription spectacles.Conclusion: This study emphasises the need for learning institutions and public health policy makers to not only raise awareness about digital eye strain but also impose time restrictions and breaks on digital-based activities and generally improve workstation design and ergonomic conditions.Contribution: This study offers a basis for targeted interventions to prevent and manage DES, particularly within learning settings.

Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Regarding the Prevalence of Occupation Related Musculoskeletal Disorders and Ergonomics among Dental Practitioners in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Karachi, Cross Sectional Survey

Introduction: The precise, minute nature of dental treatments renders a dentist particularly sensitive to ergonomic-driven hazards. Ergonomics is the study of adapting the work environment to the worker for maximum efficiency and safety. There are many contributing factors that may result in multiple occupational hazards for dentists, including inappropriate working hours, odd postures, poor ergonomics practice, a small workspace with restricted movement, and prolonged standing, which can overstretch the cervical spine and lumbar region and cause other MSDs like damage to the muscles, joints, bones, ligaments, tendons, nerves, and blood vessels. Methods and Materials: A cross sectional survey was conducted in a private tertiary care hospital. A closed ended questionnaire with informed consent will be distributed to the participants. Results: According to specialty 77.8% were general practitioner, 8.2% were maxillofacial specialist, 3.5% were specialist in restorative dentistry, 2.9% were Periodontist and orthodontist followed by 1.2% with Endodontist and Paedodontist. Conclusion: Effective ergonomics application can reduce the risk of strenuous injuries by enhancing the working environment; nevertheless, ineffective ergonomics application can result in a variety of health risks that could eventually cause disability that ends a career. For dental professionals to successfully care for patients and concentrate on their work, we need to develop primary and secondary prevention methods to reduce the prevalence of work-related MSDs among them.