Ergonomics Program Research Articles

Update on Ergonomics Standards in the United States

After two decades of dormancy, activity around ergonomics rulemaking has increased recently, primarily due to legislation passed at the state level. Several states have enacted laws addressing production quotas in warehouses and the impact they have on worker safety and health. Minnesota added an ergonomics program requirement for industries with known risk for work-related musculoskeletal disorders to their safe patient handling and warehouse quota regulations in response to legislation passed in 2023. In that same year, the Washington State Legislature passed laws that resulted in a warehouse quota regulation and initiated industry-specific rulemaking efforts. This paper provides an overview of current ergonomics standards at the state level and offers a national perspective from federal OSHA.

Musculoskeletal Disorders Among the United Arab Emirates Healthcare Professionals: Ergonomics Knowledge and Practice Study

Background: Healthcare professionals (HCPs) are particularly vulnerable to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) due to job demands such as prolonged standing, patient handling, and awkward postures. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of MSDs among HCPs, examine the association between ergonomic knowledge and practices with MSDs, and identify predictors of ergonomic knowledge. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among HCPs, including doctors and nurses, working in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The prevalence of MSDs was determined using the Nordic Questionnaire. Ergonomic knowledge and practice were assessed through a validated questionnaire covering sociodemographic and work-related factors, ten knowledge items, and fifteen practice items. A scoring system was used, where correct answers received a score of one, and incorrect answers received a score of zero. Ergonomic knowledge and practices were considered inadequate when participant scores fell below the median values of six for knowledge and eight for practice. The calculated sample size was 398, with a response rate of 96%, resulting in 380 participants. The chi-square test, binary, and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed. Results: The twelve-month prevalence of MSDs was 90.4%, with the highest percentage reported in the lower back (56%), followed by the upper back (43.4%), neck (39.2%), shoulder (38.9%), and elbow (21.3%). Inadequate ergonomic knowledge and incorrect ergonomic practices were found in 61.8% and 36.3% of HCPs, respectively. A significant association was observed between inadequate ergonomic knowledge (P < 0.001) and practice (P = 0.035) and the presence of MSDs. Significant predictors of inadequate ergonomic knowledge included the number of years worked (OR: 1.9; 95%CI: 1.00 - 3.5, P = 0.049), the provision of ergonomics training and awareness at the workplace (OR: 3.7; 95%CI: 1.9 - 7.2, P < 0.001), and inadequate ergonomic practices (OR: 1.9; 95%CI: 1.1 - 3.0, P = 0.014). Conclusions: A very high prevalence of MSDs was found among HCPs, with the lower back being the most commonly affected site. Significant predictors of inadequate ergonomic knowledge included the number of years worked, the availability of ergonomics training at the workplace, and inadequate ergonomic practices. This study underscores the need for ergonomic training programs and ergonomically friendly workplaces to equip HCPs with the knowledge and practices necessary to prevent MSDs.

Critical success factors for ergonomics programs and their relationship to benefits of health and safety in Mexico’s manufacturing industries

This research determines the critical factors for implementing ergonomics programs related to health and safety benefits in the manufacturing industries of Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, from the middle/upper management perspective. The sample was non-probabilistically selected for convenience, comprising individuals in middle and senior management positions. An original questionnaire containing 105 items measuring five latent variables was developed, reviewed, and validated for data collection. The sample size totalled 206 participants. Structural equation models using partial least squares (PLS) were employed to analyse interrelationships between variables. This research demonstrated acceptable reliability and quality indices. Management commitment emerged as the most significant factor, exerting the highest direct, indirect, and total effects on the work environment and prevention activities, significantly enhancing health and safety benefits. Consequently, manufacturing companies in Juarez City must strive to improve management commitment in the working environment and prevention activities since both strategies can increase employee health and safety benefits.

Preventing Surgeon Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders: A Pilot Study of the Comprehensive Operating Room Ergonomics (CORE) Program.

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) among surgeons are markedly increasing. Several proposed interventions to reduce WMSDs among surgeons have been studied, but few follow an occupational therapy-oriented approach addressing biomechanical, psychophysical, and psychosocial risk factors. To design, implement, and assess the potential of the Comprehensive Operating Room Ergonomics (CORE) program for surgeons, a holistic evidence-based ergonomics and wellness intervention grounded in occupational therapy principles. Mixed-methods pilot study with the quantitative strand embedded in the qualitative strand. University-affiliated hospital. Six laparoscopic surgeons. CORE program outcomes were assessed using qualitative and quantitative data to indicate changes in posture, physical discomfort, sense of wellness, and operating room (OR) ergonomic performance. The Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) was used to quantify surgeons' WMSD risk level before and after intervention. There were 12 baseline observations (two for each participant), and two or three post-CORE implementation observations. A statistically significant difference, F(1, 6) = 8.57, p = .03, was found between pre- and post-occupational therapy intervention RULA scores. Thematic analysis of surgeon feedback, which was overwhelmingly positive, identified five themes: postural alignment, areas of commonly reported physical pain or discomfort, setup of the OR environment, surgical ergonomics training, and ergonomics in everyday life. The CORE program effectively decreased ergonomic risk factors to optimize surgeons' occupational performance in the OR. This study demonstrates a potential solution to how occupational therapists can holistically support surgeons and health care providers who are at risk for WMSDs. Plain-Language Summary: By 2025, a surgeon shortage is expected, partly because of the increase in surgeons' work-related musculoskeletal disorders, which affect their health and job continuity. This pilot study shows that the Comprehensive Operating Room Ergonomics program effectively addresses these problems. The study also serves as a framework for occupational therapy professionals to work with health care providers on ergonomics, benefiting population health. Results suggest that this approach could enhance surgeons' work conditions, supporting the American Occupational Therapy Association's Vision 2025 to improve health and quality of life.

Pilot evaluation of the effectiveness of an ergonomics awareness educational programme addressed to middle-school children.

Ergonomics programmes addressed to children fit the health-promoting schools (HPS) framework. Beyond the integration of ergonomics in curricula, an important aspect is the effectiveness of the programme. This pilot study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the programme proposed to a sample of middle-school children (aged 10-13 years) of the metropolitan city of Cagliari. The programme was designed along the lines of the INAIL (Italian National Institute for Insurance against Accidents at Work) scheme and proposed to 260 children. It consisted of three phases: 1) assessment of students' background with a pre-intervention questionnaire (completed by 142 students); 2) teaching of the ergonomics training modules and evaluation of the weight of a sample of 160 backpacks, and of students' perception to be able to sit by putting their feet on the ground; 3) evaluation of conceptual understanding of ergonomics concepts with a post-intervention questionnaire (completed by 107 students out of the 142 students who completed phase 1). There was a substantial improvement in the percentage of correct responses post-intervention, confirmed by the chi-square test, regarding concepts about ergonomics, backpack weight and handling. Most of the backpacks exceeded the maximum allowed value, and 20% of students were perceived to be unable to sit putting their feet on the ground. The practical application of ergonomics pedagogy proved effective in the school setting and should be integrated into school curricula. The prevention technicians can offer a holistic approach, while the teachers are essential to implement the programme on a large scale. Effectiveness evaluation is necessary to guide resource allocation and implement and sustain the HPS approach. A tailored programme has a greater chance of reaching its target audience and maximizing effectiveness.

EMPOWERING MANUAL HANDLERS: A COMPREHENSIVE ERGONOMIC AWARENESS TRAINING PROGRAM IN PLASTIC MANUFACTURING KULAI, JOHORE

Background: Ergonomic awareness training programs are known for their methodical approach to identifying and mitigating workplace risks and have been associated with decreased Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs). MSDs were prevalent in manufacturing including the plastic industry, causing significant health and economic impacts. However, research on ergonomic interventions in this sector is limited. Objective: The primary aim of this study is to assess the effectiveness of ergonomic awareness programs among manual handling workers in the plastic tray manufacturing industry, with a focus on tasks related to forming and packing. Methods: This study was conducted in a plastic tray manufacturing facility in Kulai, Johor, that targeted workers involved in high-risk ergonomic tasks such as forming and packing, with exposure to ergonomic hazards for up to 12 hours daily. A total of 108 workers participated, receiving ergonomic awareness training and completing survey questionnaires. Results: The results revealed that post-training showed significant improvement (p<0.01) in workers' ergonomic awareness, indicating the effectiveness of the ergonomic training program in enhancing knowledge (t=12.92), attitudes (t=14.77), and practices (t=16.29). Conclusion: The findings highlight the critical role of enhanced ergonomic awareness in emphasizing the necessity for industry-specific, customized ergonomic training in the plastic tray manufacturing industry. It is suggested the implementation of these focused training programs to strengthen workplace safety and health, encourage ergonomic awareness, and lessen the long-term development of MSDs.

Online exercise added to ergonomic advice for reducing habitual upper body postures: A randomized trial

BackgroundOnline learning during the COVID-19 pandemic is associated with unfavorable habitual upper body postures. ObjectiveThis study explored whether adding a remedial exercise routine to an ergonomic advice intervention, delivered remotely, is helpful for reducing habitual postures of the neck, shoulders, and upper back. DesignPragmatic randomized controlled trial. Methods42 male adolescent students, initially selected with a forward head posture, were randomized to one of two intervention groups: ergonomic advice alone or exercise + ergonomic advice. Outcome measures were specific postural angles of, measured by a photogrammetric profile technique using a bespoke app before and after the 8-week intervention period. ResultsDuring online learning, most students used mobile phones (76%), while 35% used a table-chair-computer arrangement. At 8-week follow-up, a statistically significant reduction of forward head, shoulder protraction, and thoracic kyphosis angles was found in both groups (P < 0.001). However, the effect was significantly greater in the exercise + ergonomic advice group (P < 0.001): forward head, shoulder protraction, and thoracic kyphosis angles reduced by some 9, 6, and 5° respectively, compared with 4° for head and 2° for shoulder and thoracic angles for the ergonomic advice alone group. ConclusionThe results show that, a remedial online exercise routine is a beneficial addition to an ergonomic advice program for improving unfavorable habitual upper body postures. The impact of this intervention may extend beyond postural issues related just to online learning at home.

Modification of the Revised National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Lifting Equation to Determine the Individual Manual Lifting Risk in Malaysia's Manufacturing Industry.

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) established the Revised NIOSH Lifting Equation (RNLE) for manual lifting risk assessment. The objectives of this study were to determine the characteristics of physical factors using the RNLE and to explore additional factors to RNLE by modifying it to an Individual Lifting Equation (ILE). This cross-sectional study was conducted in the manufacturing industry of three states in Malaysia among manual lifting workers. A questionnaire was administered, which comprised the sociodemographic characteristics and Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) assessing low back pain (LBP). The RNLE dataset includes a load constant and six manual lifting variables collected from observational ergonomic risk assessment. The RNLE was modified to ILE by incorporating age, gender, and BMI. The equations' Lifting Index (LI) computed provides an overall manual lifting risk estimate. There were 165 participants, with a mean age of 28 years, and 108 (65.5%) were male. Most participants had a BMI within the normal range (60 (36.4%)) or were classified as overweight (54 (32.7%)). The lifting horizontal location showed the highest risk estimates, with the lowest meanmultiplier value of 0.55. In contrast, age and BMI had the lowest risk estimates, with mean multiplier values of 0.99 and 0.98, respectively. Among the participants, LI values of one or less, indicating very low risk, were observed in 58 (35.1%) for RNLE and 39 (23.6%) for ILE. Additionally, RNLE and ILE showed figures of 11 (6.7%) and 20 (12.1%), respectively, signifying a very high risk of LI exceeding three. Studying the lifting factors and equation multipliers from RNLE is critical for evaluating the risk estimates of manual lifting. Exploring the ILE based on individual characteristics is appropriate to support the ergonomic program. Further study is needed to validate the ILE as an accurate screening tool for determining LBP risk estimates.

Prevalence and risk factors of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among shopkeepers in Ethiopia: Evidence from a workplace cross-sectional study.

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) are the leading cause of disability worldwide. Shopkeepers are prone to developing work-related musculoskeletal disorders, but they are largely overlooked in research and policy actions, particularly in developing countries. So far, there is a lack of data on the magnitude and factors influencing work-related musculoskeletal disorders among shopkeepers in Ethiopia. Therefore, the current study aimed to explore the prevalence and risk factors of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among shopkeepers in Gondar City, Ethiopia. A workplace-based cross-sectional study was conducted from July to August 2022, in Gondar city, Northwest Ethiopia. A multistage sampling technique was used to select 625 shopkeepers. The data were collected using an interviewer-administered standardized Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. Analysis was made using Stata version 14. Factors associated with the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders were identified using the multivariable Poisson regression model. The adjusted prevalence ratio with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and p-value < 0.05 were applied to establish the significance of associations. The overall prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among shopkeepers in the past 12 months was found to be 81.1% (N = 507). The most frequently affected body part was the lower back (46.6%), followed by the upper back (43.8%) and shoulder (35.4%). Being female (p = 0.043), being in the age group of ≥40 years (p = 0.028), being overweight (p = 0.035), experiencing job stress (p = 0.006) and prolonged sitting (p = 0.045) were significant factors for the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among shopkeepers. This study revealed that shopkeepers face an alarmingly high prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Female, older, overweight, stressed and shopkeepers who sit in the same position for long periods of time were identified as particularly vulnerable groups. These findings call for the urgent development and implementation of preventive measures, including ergonomic adjustments, education and training programs, stress management techniques and the promotion of physical activity, to protect this vulnerable workforce from the debilitating effects of work-related musculoskeletal disorders and to ensure their long-term health and well-being.

Integrating human factors engineering into your pediatric radiology practice.

Human factors engineering involves the study and development of methods aimed at enhancing performance, improving safety, and optimizing user satisfaction. The focus of human factors engineering encompasses the design of work environments and an understanding of human mental processes to prevent errors. In this review, we summarize the history, applications, and impacts of human factors engineering on the healthcare field. To illustrate these applications and impacts, we provide several examples of how successful integration of a human factors engineer in our pediatric radiology department has positively impacted various projects. The successful integration of human factors engineering expertise has contributed to projects including improving response times for portable radiography requests, deploying COVID-19 response resources, informing the redesign of scheduling workflows, and implementation of a virtual ergonomics program for remote workers. In sum, the integration of human factors engineering insight into our department has resulted in tangible benefits and has also positioned us as proactive contributors to broader hospital-wide improvements.

Evaluation of the effect of ergonomic educational intervention on working condition correction and reduction of musculoskeletal disorders in office workers

Introduction: The growing trend of office workers and the use of computers in these workstations has caused an increase in the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among them. Most of the studies have emphasized the need for interventions to improve the ergonomics of office workstations. Therefore, the present study was conducted to investigate the effect of ergonomic training intervention on improving working conditions and reducing musculoskeletal disorders in office workers. Materials and Methods: The present research is a descriptive-analytical and correlational study. The statistical population of the study is all the employees of the administrative staff of Shuttle Company, according to the criteria for entering and exiting the study, 130 people participated in this study. After the initial evaluation of the work situation, the ergonomic training intervention program was presented to the employees of the company to reduce the musculoskeletal injury factors for two months. The physical condition was evaluated before and after the training. Data collection tools included the Nordic Musculoskeletal Disorders Evaluation Questionnaire (NMQ) and the ROSA posture evaluation method. The data was analyzed by SPSS software; descriptive statistics and Student's t-test were used for statistical analysis. Results: The results of the study showed that the relationship between musculoskeletal disorders in different age groups is not significant in most body organs and only this relationship has been confirmed in the neck and upper back area. However, the relationship between skeletal and muscular disorders and employees' work history is not significant in most body parts, and only this relationship has been confirmed in the neck and upper back area. Finally, the ergonomic training of the studied subjects has had a significant impact on their calculated risk level (using the ROSA method). Conclusion: Although most companies have equipment with the necessary ergonomics, employees do not know how to use them correctly. Due to the lack of knowledge of some managers and employees about the importance of ergonomics, it is better to provide these people with the necessary training in this field in addition to creating a work environment by the principles of ergonomics.

The relationship between the level of postural stress, Musculoskeletal Disorders, and chronic fatigue: A case study in the dairy industry.

Dairy industry workers face numerous ergonomic risk factors in their workplace, including improper posture, manual material handling, and musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Fewstudies have been conducted on the correlation of postural stress, MSDs, and chronic fatigue among workers in the dairy industry. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the level of postural stress, MSDs, and chronic fatigue in a dairy company. In this cross-sectional study, 260 male workers were included in the research based on specific inclusion criteria. The Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire, Chalder Fatigue Scale, and a researcher-made demographic questionnaire were used to collect data. The posture of workers was evaluated using RULA and REBA software, and the evaluation of the manual lifting of loads was assessed using the WISHA lifting calculator. Finally, the collected data were entered into the SPSS software version 26.0 and analyzed. The findings revealed a significant statistical relationship between the level of postural stress and chronic fatigue and a significant positive correlation between MSDs and chronic fatigue. Furthermore, a statistically significant relationship was observed between MSDs, chronic fatigue, and ergonomics training experience. The results obtained in this study support the notion that high levels of postural stress and MSDs can produce an increase in chronic fatigue among workers, and lack of ergonomics training for workers can increase both MSDs and chronic fatigue. Therefore, it is necessary to carry out intervention measures in the field of ergonomics management in similar industries through the implementation of ergonomic intervention programs with a focus on proactive and preventive measures and the use of participatory ergonomic programs and educational demands assessment.

The effect of the ergonomic intervention program on work-related musculoskeletal disorders in healthcare professionals

Introduction: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) are the most common work-related disorders and describe a wide range of degenerative and inflammatory states that affect blood vessels, peripheral nerves, bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. Healthcare as a special sector has almost the highest prevalence of WRMSDs in the world, far ahead of construction, mining, and manufacturing. Studies conducted in the EU and the USA indicate that health-care professionals most often have a problem with the lower back between 50% and 57% of cases, resulting in an average loss of more than 7 working days during 1 year. Methods: This study included 177 health professionals of both genders who are actively involved in the provision of health-care services. The study was conducted in the Public Health Center of Sarajevo Canton, which provides primary and specialist consultative healthcare services. The study was designed as a prospective, longitudinal, interventional, and descriptive-analytical that included all respondents who met the inclusion criteria. The instruments used in the study are the standardized Dutch Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire, modified according to our study, the standardized work ability index, and the ergonomic intervention program (EIP). Results: The highest frequency of work-related MKDs in health-care professionals before and after implementation of the EIP was in the neck area (83.1% before, 64.9% after), in the upper back region (71.8% before, 56.5 % after) and in the lower back region (68.4% before, 55.9% after). The average score of the working ability index before the introduction of the EIP was 35.44 ± 8.59, while after the implementation of the EIP it increased statistically significantly and amounted to 38.40 ± 7.30. Conclusion: The EIP influenced the reduction of the MKDs frequency caused by work, and increased the working capacity of health-care professionals.

A systematic review of programs and interventions for reduction of sickness absence in nursing staff with work-related musculoskeletal disorders.

Negative consequences of musculoskeletal pain and injuries on the nurses' health and well-being can increase job dissatisfaction and impose high costs on healthcare centers due to lost workdays and compensation claims. This study aimed to identify policies, programs, and interventions that might be effective in the prevention and reduction of sickness absence and improvement of work outcomes in nursing staff with these problems. The systematic review was conducted according to the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Electronic databases were searched up to November 9-23, 2022. The keywords "musculoskeletal disorders", "nurse", "return to work", "sickness absence", and "sick leave" and their equivalents were combined using Boolean operators OR/AND. Reference lists of eligible literatures were also screened to identify related studies. In this study, a total of 3365 records were retrieved. After two rounds of screening, 15 studies were selected for qualitative synthesis. These studies included seven randomized controlled trial, five pre-post studies, two cohort, and one cross-sectional. Six types of interventions identified including back college, early workplace-based intervention, physical activity/training, psychosocial education, multifaceted intervention, and ergonomics program. There is insufficient evidence to identify effective interventions in preventing and reducing sickness absence, and improvement of work outcomes in nursing personnel with work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Numerous factors affected the occurrence of such disorders, and their consequences, therefore comprehensive strategy tailored to the injured person's needs should be considered.

Ergonomic intervention program for office workers: a case study about its effect in computer vision syndrome and musculoskeletal discomfort

This study aims to develop and implement an ergonomic intervention program at the workplace of knowledge workers, and to evaluate its impact on the reduction of Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) and musculoskeletal symptoms. 84 workers were part of the study (mean age 43.2 ± 9.7 years). The intervention included training, delivery of a packaging of artificial tears, and adjustments in workstations. It was conducted intensively along 6 weeks. Data was collected on-site, with questionnaires administered pre-intervention, 2 months after, and 4 months after. Participants exhibited behavioural changes, especially in workplace adjustments and visual rest. By the intervention’s end, over 90% had correctly adjusted screens and adopted appropriate postures, while 42.7% adhered to the 20x20x20 rule. CVS severity and prevalence decreased, but not significantly across the three time points. Significant improvements were observed in upper back and neck musculoskeletal symptoms at the end of workdays. Findings suggest that an ergonomic intervention program can benefit employees by reducing visual and musculoskeletal symptoms.

Applying implementation science to evaluate participatory ergonomics program for continuous improvement: A case study in the construction industry

While participatory ergonomics (PE) presents numerous benefits, its empirical effectiveness remains elusive due to the lack of transparency in implementation contexts and processes. This hinders our ability to discern the reasons behind a program's success or failure and to determine optimization and adaptation strategies. To unravel this “black box,” we present a case study using implementation science to evaluate a PE program and illuminate the mechanisms linking process to outcome. The study examines a 4.5-year PE program at a construction company, targeting musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) from material-cart handling. Using the RE-AIM framework and Implementation Causal Pathway Model, we evaluated implementation process and catalogued contextual factors through worker surveys (n = 106), safety document review (27 training sessions and 7 construction projects), and key informant observations. We assessed the program's impact using a 42-worker survey and an analysis of 8-year injury data, and determined the return-on-investment (ROI) by monetizing the collected data. The program achieved significant impact: Workers' ergonomic knowledge improved from 73% in baseline to 86% in follow-up; 97% of workers reported at least one positive change in their crews; and no cart handling injuries occurred after the first program change, resulting in a ROI rate of 1.99. Implementation process evaluation revealed that seamless integration, tailored intervention, and ongoing adjustments contributed to the success. Five organizational factors necessary for the effective functioning of these three strategies were identified, along with three moderators that amplified their influence. Finally, this case study demonstrates that implementation science offers a coherent structure for evaluating PE programs, uncovering mechanisms of change, and informing future improvements and adaptations. Our research facilitates knowledge transfer from implementation science to ergonomics, eventually leading to more cost-effective PE programs that are faithfully implemented across various industrial settings to prevent MSDs.

Working Through the Pain: A Cross-Sectional Survey on Musculoskeletal Pain Among Surgeons and Residents

IntroductionWhile prior studies have reported that over 80% of surgeons report musculoskeletal pain, to our knowledge, the degree of care required to manage these symptoms has not been discussed. Here, we present granular data on musculoskeletal treatment modalities used by surgeons and residents at a single institution. MethodsWe distributed a survey to assess the prevalence of musculoskeletal pain and treatment utilization to surgery attending and residents at a single institution. ResultsFifty-five out of 115 residents and attending (47.8%) responded to our survey. Among the respondents, 87.3% reported pain within the past week and 76.4% (42/55) of respondents required treatment for musculoskeletal pain and injuries: 63.6% had taken over the counter pain medication, 10.9% had taken prescription pain medication, 25.5% required physical therapy, 14.5% required orthopedic surgery, 23.6% made an appointment with a specialist, and 21.8% required additional testing (i.e., imaging, labs). Interestingly, treatment utilization overall and by modality was similar between residents and attending surgeons. ConclusionsOur study mirrors the high prevalence of musculoskeletal pain in surgeons that has been previously reported in the literature. Among survey respondents, 76.5% of surgeons and 76.2% of residents required some form of treatment. These findings suggest a significant burden of musculoskeletal disorders of likely multifactorial etiologies including operating room ergonomics. Therefore, comprehensive ergonomics programs to measure, prevent, and treat musculoskeletal injury may help to fulfill a compelling need to ensure health and career longevity of the surgical workforce.

Bibliometric study on Ergonomics and Sustainability

Reflections on ergonomics in the context of the sustainability of organizations are an important strategy for the improvement of safe working environments. In the literature, the discussion that encompasses the relationship between ergonomics and business sustainability is a topic little explored. The objective of the present research is to map and explore the scientific production in the field of ergonomics and sustainability in the period from 2010 to 2020, in order to show the temporal evolution of research and the existing articulation between the themes. The research method is exploratory. To carry out the research, the bibliometric technique was chosen. To this end, articles were searched in the SciELO and Scopus databases, and theses and dissertations in the Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations (BDTD) of CAPES on the theme of ergonomics and sustainability. The bibliometric research allows to identify limits, contributions and potentialities that highlight the need for the production of research and new knowledge that associate the theme of ergonomics with sustainability. The development of an ergonomics program associated with the principles of sustainability seems to be a way to manage occupational risks with preventive measures in occupational safety and health.

Human factors in the hospital: Education, skills, and job details

ObjectiveTo present the job requirements and background Human Factors professionals may need to be prepared and succeed in health care facilities. BackgroundBoth hospitals and Human Factors professionals must be prepared for the predicted growth of Human Factors job openings in health care. Professionals transitioning from another industry or graduating from a Human Factors and Ergonomics (HFE) program may benefit from understanding what hospitals need, education requirements, and the compensatory landscape. To date, there is a lack of baseline information about Human Factors professional job details in health care. MethodWe surveyed hospital-embedded Human Factors professionals. We grouped respondents based on the amount of time dedicated to operations vs. research work. ResultsOf 32 respondents, 75% were women. Hospital-embedded professionals reported an average salary of $153,917 and a median salary of $149,481. Although more institutions required a master's degree, 25% of practitioners had a doctorate degree. Technical and interpersonal skills were similar between researchers and practitioners including data collection and teamwork. ConclusionUniversities can use this information to tailor educational programs for HFE students interested in a health care track. Hospitals seeking HFE professionals can create targeted job descriptions. HFE professionals can assess their ability to transition into the health care setting. ApplicationThis information can be used by HFE professionals to assess their readiness to enter the hospital setting and negotiate compensation based on the current market. Hospitals can also use this to determine what skills HFE professionals bring.

Investigation of the Impact of Ergonomic Training Programs on the Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders of Adminis-trative and Support Staff at Imam Reza Hospital in Mashhad, Iran

Investigation of the Impact of Ergonomic Training Programs on the Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders of Adminis-trative and Support Staff at Imam Reza Hospital in Mashhad, Iran