Ergonomics Program Research Articles

Ergonomic risk factors and musculoskeletal disorders in bank staff: an interventional follow-up study in Iran

BackgroundLong-term use of computer in a static mode may cause musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in bank staff. Considering the high number of bank employees in different countries, such as Iran, the risk factors of these disorders should be investigated in order to implement interventions required to reduce the risk factors. This study aimed to examine the risk factors of MSDs using the Rapid Office Strain Assessment (ROSA) method and to perform an ergonomic intervention program with banking staff in Iran.MethodsThis interventional study was conducted on 277 bank employees in Iran. Subjects were randomly divided into three groups, including a control group (without any intervention), an educational intervention (EI) group, and a group receiving both educational and physical intervention (EPI). Before and after the intervention, the ROSA method and Nordic questionnaire were used to assess the risk factors of MSDs in office jobs and to investigate the prevalence of MSDs. Data were collected 2 weeks before and 9 months following the intervention.ResultsBefore the intervention, the mean score of ROSA at workstations of all groups was above five with high risk. Nine months after the start of the intervention, there was a significant decrease in the mean ROSA score and its components in the two groups that received the intervention, which was statistically significant (P < 0.001). The results of the study of the prevalence of MSDs in the employees—before the intervention—indicate that the highest prevalence of MSDs in the control group was in areas of the neck (67.1%), back (64.4%), and lower back (63%). In the EI group, the highest prevalence of MSDs was in the neck (65.2%), lower back (61.6%), and back (60.7%) areas. In the EPI group, the discomfort areas were the neck (68.5%), shoulders (66.3%), and lower back (60.9%). Nine months after the intervention, there was a significant decrease in the prevalence of MSDs in the neck, shoulders, and lumbar regions of staff who received the intervention (P < 0.05).ConclusionNine months after performing the interventions, there was a relative improvement in workstations and prevalence of MSDs in various areas within the bodies of the bank staff. This study showed that using the ROSA method is appropriate for assessing the risk factors of office work and that it can identify deficiencies in workstations. These defects can be addressed by designing and implementing an EI program together with physical interventions according to the components of the ROSA method.

Assessing the effectiveness of an ergonomics intervention program with a participatory approach: ergonomics settlement in an Iranian steel industry.

PurposeWork-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are common occupational problems affecting the health and productivity of workers worldwide. Ergonomic intervention programs (EIPs) can play an effective role in preventing these disorders in the workplace. Assessing the effectiveness of an EIP is a challenge faced by both industries and researchers. This study was aimed at assessing the effectiveness of an EIP on human resources productivity (HRP), musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), general health and occupational fatigue in a steel industry.MethodsThis study was conducted in a steel industry in Isfahan, Iran, between 2018 and 2021. To assess the effectiveness of the EIP with a participatory approach, training and redesign of workstations, the criteria of HRP, MSDs, general health and occupational fatigue were investigated before and after the intervention, using HRP Questionnaire, Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire (NMQ), 28-item General Health Questionnaire (28-GHQ), Swedish Occupational Fatigue Inventory (SOFI-20) and Occupational Fatigue/Exhaustion Recovery (OFER-15) Questionnaire, as data collection tools, respectively.ResultsThe implementation of EIP in the studied industry significantly led to an increase in HRP (p < 0.05). The prevalence of MSDs decreased significantly in most regions of the body after the interventions (p < 0.001). In addition, the program significantly improved general health (p < 0.001) and reduced occupational fatigue among employees (p < 0.001).ConclusionsThe implementation of EIP was significantly effective in working conditions improvement. Therefore, implementing EIP with participatory approach, workforce training, as well as redesigning of workstations are recommended in industries.

Use of a Wearable Posture-Correcting Device to Train Residents in Plastic Surgery: A Novel Approach to Surgical Ergonomics and Prevention of Associated Musculoskeletal Disorders.

Use of a Wearable Posture-Correcting Device to Train Residents in Plastic Surgery: A Novel Approach to Surgical Ergonomics and Prevention of Associated Musculoskeletal Disorders.

A multilayered ergonomic intervention program on reducing musculoskeletal disorders in an industrial complex: A dynamic participatory approach

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are closely identified with common complaints in different workplaces. This study aimed to implement an intervention program through which ergonomic measures were dynamically localized in industry. An interventional study, including three basic layers, namely, training workshops, participatory ergonomics (PE), and workstation redesign was fulfilled in an Iranian steel manufacturing complex from 2017 to 2020. A steering committee (SC) was formed following several meetings held for clarification of the project to the management team. The SC members then attended four organized workshops managed by an ergonomics specialist. Afterwards, the basics of ergonomics were transferred to action groups. After developing ergonomic assessment tools, the ergonomic problems were prioritized and numerous positive changes were made by the action groups. The findings of the tailored checklists revealed a load of WMSDs risk factors. All the three layers of the program were implemented as initiated. Ergonomics training workshops were then held and significant differences were observed between the participants' pre/posttest mean scores in all workshops (p < 0.001). Moreover, PE measures were exercised at all levels of the organization inducing enthusiastic motivation of the workforce to consider ergonomic requirements in the workplace. Consequently, the workers' innovative ideas and the managerial support yielded diverse workstation redesigns due to a growth in either the workers' ergonomics awareness or participatory culture grounding. A multilayered ergonomic intervention was implemented in this study. In conclusion, a multifaceted long-term follow-up intervention program could be applied to enhance workers’ health status and to raise system productivity.

Does food insecurity affect musculoskeletal symptoms, fatigue, and productivity of municipality cleaners? A cross-sectional study.

Municipality cleaners are exposed to food insecurity, Musculoskeletal Symptoms (MSs), and fatigue. This study aimed to investigate the effect of food insecurity on MSs, fatigue, and productivity among municipality cleaners. This study was conducted on 399 Iranian male municipality cleaners with at least one year of working experience. The data were gathered via a demographic/occupational questionnaire, the Persian version of the Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (P-HFIAS), the Persian version of Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (P-NMQ), the Persian version of the Multidimensional Assessment of Fatigue scale (P-MAF), and the Persian version of Health and Work Questionnaire (P-HWQ). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, multiple logistic regression (Forward Wald), and multiple linear regression (Stepwise). The findings revealed that 42.6%of the municipality cleaners were in the 'severely food insecure' category. The highest prevalence of MSs in the past week were related to knees (35.8%), lower back (35.1%), and ankles/feet (28.8%). Based on the results, the chance of MSs in the shoulders (OR = 1.66) and ankles/feet (1.60) regions, and MSs at least in one body region (OR = 1.47) was higher in the individuals with severe food insecurity than the others. Considering the P-MAF, food insecurity was associated with the 'degree and severity', 'distress that it causes', and 'timing of fatigue' subscales and 'total fatigue'. Considering the P-HWQ, food insecurity was associated with 'productivity', 'other's assessment', 'concentration/focus', 'supervisor relations', 'non-work satisfaction', and 'impatience/irritability' subscales. The study revealed an association between food insecurity and MSs in some body regions and fatigue and productivity subscales among the municipality cleaners. Nutritional and ergonomic programs are recommended to reduce municipality cleaners' food insecurity, MSs, and fatigue and enhance their productivity.

The Effects of a Home-Based Combined Motor Control and Ergonomic Program on Functional Ability and Fear of Falling: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

ObjectivesPhysical exercise is a key intervention for improving functional ability and preventing falls in older people. However, the implemented interventions targeted balance, gait, and muscle strength, while little is known regarding motor control exercises in this population. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of a 12-week home-based motor control exercise program combined with an ergonomic home modification (the McHeELP program).Patients and methodsFifty-two older people (aged ≥65 years), who had experienced at least one fall incident in the past 12 months, were randomly assigned into two groups; the McHeELP group (McHeELP-G) (n=26) that received the McHeELP program and the control group (CG) (n=26). Physical performance measures (PPMs) and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) were used to evaluate participants. At baseline, 3rd month (post-intervention), and again at 6th month (follow up), balance control was assessed using the Tandem stance test (Tandem) and the Functional Reach Test (FRT). Functionality was assessed by the 4 meters walking test (4MWT), Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, 30 seconds-Sit to stand test and the Greek version of Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS-Greek). The Greek version of the Falls Self-efficacy International scale (FES-I_GREEK) was used for the evaluation of "fear-of-falling" (FOF). The home falls and accidents screening tool (HOMEFAST) is used to identify home hazards. Two-way mixed ANOVA model, independent samples t-test, One-factor Repeated Measures ANOVA model and ANCOVA model were used for the statistical analysis of the data.ResultsHomogeneity was found between McHeELP-G and CG regarding the demographic and clinical characteristics, and no statistically significant difference was found at baseline measurements of PROs and PPMs, except HOMEFAST (p=0.031). Post-intervention (3rd month), the comparison of the absolute values between groups revealed that the McHeELP-G achieved statistically significant better balance control (longer Tandem stance test and higher values of FRT), better functionality [faster gait speed (4MWT), shorter TUG performance time, and a higher number of repetitions at 30 seconds-Sit to stand] (all p-values <0.05), while no difference was found for LEFS-Greek score (p=0.095), compared to CG. In addition, McHeELP-G reported lesser FOF than CG [lower FES-I_GREEK score (p=0.041)], and fewer home-hazards [lower HOMEFAST score (p=0.041)]. At follow up measurement (6th month), all PPMs scores of McHeELP-G, regarding balance control and functionality, were remained statistically significant (all p-values <0.005), and the FES-I_GREEK score (p=0.034), while no difference was found between groups for LEFS-Greek score (p=0.146) and HOMEFAST score (p=0.185). Sensitivity analysis (from baseline to 3rd and 6th month) revealed similar findings to the "comparison of the absolute values between groups" analysis. The within-group changes from baseline to 3rd month of McHeELP-G were statistically significant improved for all PPMs and PROs (all p-values <0.05), while in CG, statistical significant difference was found for TUG, FRT-right, and HOMEFAST (p<0.05). Those within-group changes were also preserved until 6th month.ConclusionsThe study's findings provide encouraging evidence that McHeELP program may increase functional ability and decrease FOF of older people. However, further research is required for a thorough understanding of the effect of McHeELP program.

Effect of Educational Intervention about Computer Vision Syndrome on the Severity of Eye Complaints among Computer Users

The Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) related to the usage of computers has been due to low compliance with ergonomic features. The aim of that research was to assess the effectiveness of educational intervention about computer vision syndrome on the severity of eye complaints among computer users. Design: A quasi-experimental interventional study with pre-post evaluation was performed. Setting: The research was concluded in the administrative buildings of Zagazig University/Egypt. Subjects: Seventy-five computer operators were included in the current study. Tools: Three questionnaires were used for data gathering, which includes I. computer user's self-administered questionnaire, and Self- reported eye complaints' and computer users' CVS knowledge scale, II. Observation and measurement of the employees' computer ergonomic practices, and III. Assessment of the computer workstation design. Results: Following educational intervention by 1 and 3 months, the total-eye-complaints score, total-knowledge score, and the total protective ergonomic practices scores showed a statistically significant difference. Additionally, after one and three months, the overall workstation score showed a substantial mean difference. Conclusion: As a result of the educational intervention regarding computer vision syndrome and its preventive ergonomic practices, computer users' observed eye symptoms decreased, their knowledge about computer vision syndrome improved. Their protective ergonomic practices and workstation proposal were remodeled. Recommendation: Based on the study findings, it is recommended that application the educational intervention about the ergonomic training program Computer operating employees, and acquiescence to recommend office ergonomics are essential to alleviate the growing prevalence in CVS cases.

Methodology of a home-based motor control exercise and ergonomic intervention programme for community-dwelling older people: The McHeELP study.

The aim of this research (Motor control Home ergonomics Elderlies’ Prevention of falls; McHeELP study) was to develop a novel intervention combining motor control home-based exercises and a home ergonomic safety-improvement strategy in order to reduce falls in frail ambulatory older adults. A randomized controlled trial of a novel intervention is proposed including motor control exercises and home ergonomic assessment and modification in older adults who have at least one fall experience. Participants are randomized to control or intervention group in a 1:1 ratio. Participants will be assessed three times: at baseline, at 3rd month (end of intervention period) and again at 6th month (follow-up measurement). The primary outcome is of the effect on functional mobility using the Timed Up and Go test. Secondary outcomes include assessments of functionality, fear of falling and quality of life. This will be the first study to develop an exercise intervention approach that combines home-based motor control exercise intervention with home assessment and modification. This study is expected to explore a low-cost, easy-to-popularize, and effective exercise intervention approach for improving functional mobility and prevent falls among older adults.

Implementation of the Comprehensive Operating Room Ergonomics Program for Surgeons Through an OT Approach: A Feasibility Study

Abstract Date Presented 04/22/21 The Comprehensive Operating Room Ergonomics (CORE) program was developed to address the physical and environmental demands among surgeons. This feasibility study examined the design and implementation process of an evidence-based OT ergonomics intervention using a mixed-methods research design. The CORE program supports the American Occupational Therapy Association’s Vision 2025 of promoting population health and wellness, especially among surgeons who are essential to our health care system. Primary Author and Speaker: Pamela Hess Additional Authors and Speakers: Elena Donoso Brown

Ergonomics in Spine Surgery.

As physician burnout and wellness become increasingly recognized as vital themes for the medical community to address, the topic of chronic work-related conditions in surgeons must be further evaluated. While improving ergonomics and occupational health have been long emphasized in the executive and business worlds, particularly in relation to company morale and productivity, information within the surgical community remains relatively scarce. Chronic peripheral nerve compression syndromes, hand osteoarthritis, cervicalgia and back pain, as well as other repetitive musculoskeletal ailments affect many spinal surgeons. The use of ergonomic training programs, an operating microscope or exoscope, powered instruments for pedicle screw placement, pneumatic Kerrison punches and ultrasonic osteotomes, as well as utilizing multiple surgeons or microbreaks for larger cases comprise several methods by which spinal surgeons can potentially improve workspace health. As such, it is worthwhile exploring these areas to potentially improve operating room ergonomics and overall surgeon longevity.

Programa integral de ergonomía para la reducción de molestias musculoesqueléticas en trabajadores usuarios de computadora

IntroductionMusculoskeletal complaints represent one of the main problems that affect the well-being and work performance of computer users demanding interventions with a comprehensive approach where workers actively participate. ObjectiveTo evaluate the effect of a comprehensive ergonomics program to reduce musculoskeletal discomfort and postural overload in computer user workers. MethodsA quantitative study with an analytical approach and quasi-experimental design with independent groups was carried out during 3-month. 242 people participated, divided into 2 groups of 121 people each, who used a computer for more than 4h a day. The experimental group participated in the ergonomics program that included training, delivery of an informative leaflet on ergonomics in offices, adaptation of the workstation and a stretching exercise program. The control group received training and only once the information leaflet. A baseline measurement of musculoskeletal discomfort and postural overload was performed in both groups. At the end of 3months, a second data collection was carried out and compared with the baseline data. ResultsThe ergonomics program significantly reduced the intensity of musculoskeletal discomfort in the different neck, shoulder and back segments (P<.05), but did not reduce the frequency of discomfort (P>.05). Furthermore, the program significantly reduced the level of postural overload (P<.05). ConclusionThe comprehensive ergonomics program was effective in reducing the intensity of musculoskeletal complaints and postural overload, but did not significantly reduce the frequency of musculoskeletal complaints.

Implementation of an Office Ergonomics Program to Promote Musculoskeletal Health: A Case Study in Hong Kong

OCCUPATIONAL APPLICATIONS An office ergonomics program was implemented at a multinational company in Hong Kong. The FITS Model office ergonomics program included four components: (1) F: Furniture Evaluation and Selection, wherein the ergonomist conducted a walkthrough review of furniture and environmental settings; (2) I: Individual Workstation Assessment, in which the office ergonomics guideline and educational video were developed. An interactive individual ergonomics workstation assessment included a health survey, and the assessor provided immediate recommendations for changes to workstation setup; (3) T: Training and Education; and (4) S: Stretching Exercises and Rest Breaks, which entailed classroom training to promote office ergonomics principles and demonstrate office stretching exercises. A case study is described, included the steps to implement the program and highlights of the feedback from the project team gathered during mid-term and final evaluations. Lessons learned regarding program management and the limitations of the project intervention offer useful information for practitioners and companies.

The risk of ergonomic injury across surgical specialties.

Lack of ergonomic training and poor ergonomic habits during the operation leads to musculoskeletal pain and affects the surgeon's life outside of work. The objective of the study was to evaluate the severity of ergonomic hazards in the surgical profession across a wide range of surgical subspecialties. We conducted intraoperative observations using Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) score system to identify ergonomic hazards. Additionally, each of the ten surgical subspecialty departments were sent an optional 14 question survey which evaluated ergonomic practice, environmental infrastructure, and prior ergonomic training or education. A total of 91 surgeons received intraoperative observation and were evaluated on the REBA scale with a minimum score of 0 (low ergonomic risk <3) and a maximum score of 10 (high ergonomic risk 8-10). And a total of 389 surgeons received the survey and 167 (43%) surgeons responded. Of the respondents, 69.7% reported suffering from musculoskeletal pain. Furthermore, 54.9% of the surgeons reported suffering from the highest level of pain when standing during surgery, while only 14.4% experienced pain when sitting. Importantly, 47.7% stated the pain impacted their work, while 59.5% reported pain affecting quality of life outside of work. Only 23.8% of surgeons had any prior ergonomic education. Both our subjective and objective data suggest that pain and disability induced by poor ergonomics are widespread among the surgical community and confirm that surgeons rarely receive ergonomic training. Intraoperative observational findings identified that the majority of observed surgeons displayed poor posture, particularly a poor cervical angle and use of ergonomic setups, both of which increase ergonomic risk hazards. This data supports the need for a comprehensive ergonomic interventional program for the surgical team and offers potential targets for future intervention.

Individualized ergonomic wellness approach for the practicing gastroenterologist (with video)

The prevalence and burden of ergonomic-related musculoskeletal injury are well established in the literature, but data are scarce on techniques that can be used to avoid injury. This pilot study aimed to develop a new method of endoscopist wellness assessment. The technique presented here is an intervention by a physical therapist assessing ergonomic position and posturing during endoscopy to create an individualized wellness plan. Volunteer endoscopists were identified in a single ambulatory surgical center. Demographics, previous injury, current pain, and posture were evaluated. A comprehensive assessment was developed by the physical therapist while observing endoscopists performing at least 2 colonoscopies and while working at their computer workspace. The detailed personalized wellness program included recommendations for individualized exercises, static and dynamic posture re-education during and between procedures, optimization of procedure suite setup, pain education, and an opportunity for follow-up 1-on-1 sessions with the physical therapist. Endoscopists were later interviewed regarding their perception of and compliance with the wellness plan. Specific outcomes evaluated included changes in musculoskeletal pain, acceptance, and incorporation of wellness recommendations and procedure suite alterations into clinical practice. As we developed this new method of endoscopic wellness assessment, 8 endoscopists representing a wide range of ages and clinical experience were assessed. Twenty-two pain sites were identified among 5 subjects, with back and neck pain the most common pain sites. A variety of ergonomic inefficiencies and suboptimal movement patterns was observed, resulting in highly variant wellness plans. By the end of the study, 63% of pain sites were reduced in intensity or resolved, whereas 32% of pain sites were unchanged and 4% increased in intensity. Seven of 8 participants found the pictures depicting their posture that supported their movement analysis helpful,and 3 participants requested reassessment by the physical therapist. All participants reported static and dynamic postural education and procedure suite setup recommendations to be impactful to their ergonomic performance. Ergonomic assessment and instruction by a physical therapist was well received and resulted in improvement of musculoskeletal complaints among a cohort of endoscopists reporting baseline pain associated with performing endoscopy. In addition, this intervention provided ergonomic education that can be carried forward throughout their professional endoscopic career. We believe that ongoing individualized assessment and optimization of ergonomics is necessary because generalized wellness programs or even modifications to endoscopic equipment would not targetall the unique ergonomic challenges faced by each physician. Ergonomic programs using the newmethod presented here could potentially contribute to career longevity, decrease burnout, reduce lost days ofwork, and, most importantly, reduce pain and fatigue among practitioners.

The role of workers' perceptions towards the uncertain result of ergonomic program

Manual activities of workers in palm oil factories cause pain complaints that can be resolved with an ergonomic program. However, the uncertainty of the success of the ergonomic program requires active involvement from workers. This study aims to discuss the role of workers’ perceptions towards the success of the ergonomic program intervention in palm oil mills. By referring to the theory of reasoned action and technology acceptance model, acceptance of workers to ergonomics programs are influenced by perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, and perceived trust. All these research variables were analyzed simultaneously using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) software, in which data were obtained from questionnaires given to 280 people working in 20 palm oil mills in North Sumatra Province. The sampling method used is simple random sampling and model estimation is performed using PLS regression algorithm and resampling bootstrapping method. The result shows that perceived usefulness has the biggest effect on the success of the ergonomic program, followed by perceived trust and perceived ease of use, which has a smaller effect. This study focuses on workers’ perception that needs to be considered for facing uncertain results in implementing an ergonomic program.

Implementation and evaluation of an ergonomic training program and stretch exercises among welders in the informal sector in three urban centres in Zimbabwe.

Implementation and evaluation of an ergonomic training program and stretch exercises among welders in the informal sector in three urban centres in Zimbabwe.

Prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders, ergonomics risk assessment and implementation of participatory ergonomics program for pistachio farm workers.

Background and objectives: Pistachio farmers are exposed to a variety of risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). However, no study has been conducted to investigate MSDs in pistachio workers. Therefore, in the present study, besides investigating the prevalence of MSDs and their ergonomic risk factors, the participatory ergonomics (PE) method is used to provide an intervention program to reduce MSDs in this population in harvesting and processing pistachio. Methods: The present study was conducted in two phases. In the first phase 138 workers participated. The prevalence of MSDs was assessed with Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire and the ergonomic risk factors was identified with ManTRA method. In the second phase PE was used to perform ergonomic interventions for reducing MSDs and the effect of the intervention was investigated. Sixty-four workers participated in the second phase (32 in the case group and 32 in the control group). Results: The highest prevalence of MSDs was in shoulders (63.7%), followed by the lower back (63%) and wrists/hands (52.1%). The comparison showed that after implementing the PE intervention program, the prevalence of MSDs in the intervention group was not significantly different from that in the control group. However, in the reassessment by the ManTRA method for five tasks that were identified as high risk in the first phase, a decrease in ManTRA final score was observed for all the five tasks. Conclusions: MSDs were prevalent in all body regions of workers. After implementing PE interventions exposure to ergonomic risk factors decreased.

EFFECTS OF THE "SCHOOL ON THE MOVE" PROGRAM ON THE POSTURAL STATUS OF YOUNGER SCHOOL AGE STUDENTS

In order to determine the effects of the "School on the Move" program on the postural status of students, a survey was conducted on a sample of 22 younger school age students of both sexes for the duration of one school semester. Students were given lectures on ergonomic risk and ways of reducing ergonomic risk factors, and a number of posters and flyers with proper lifting, bag-wearing and sitting techniques were distributed. The "School on the Move" ergonomic program encouraged students to move freely on their chair or to stand up and stretch when they experienced discomfort/pain, or perform a few brief stretching exercises while sitting on their chair. The postural status of the spine was assessed in the sagittal and frontal plane (thoracic and lumbar scoliosis, kyphosis and lordosis) by the "Spinal mouse" instrument (Quantum Health and Wellness Ltd, Wallasay, England). A repeated measures ANOVA was used for statistical data processing. The results showed that during the 16-week period, there was a significant improvement in the reduction of thoracic scoliosis (p=0.003) and kyphosis (p=0.006), while there were no significant changes in the lumbar scoliosis and lordosis. On the basis of these results, it could be concluded that such a program could have a significant impact on the posture improvement of the spinal column, and that it can be practically applied in the school curriculum as a preventive measure for spinal postural status disturbance of younger school age students.

Leadership Styles in Participatory Ergonomics Programs: A Bibliometric Analysis

Workplace participatory ergonomics (PE) programs may foster the prevention of injuries and illnesses as well as promote healthier behaviors and productivity among employees. Facilitating leadership has been identified as a critical component to the implementation of PE programs. Several contemporary leadership styles and theories have been proposed in the Industrial and Organizational (I/O) Psychology literature. A bibliometric mapping analysis was performed to assess the extent to which contemporary leadership styles have been studied in relation to PE programs in the ergonomics and public, environmental, and occupational health literature categories of the Clarivate Analytics Web of Science (WoS). Results indicated that while production in the collective areas of PE programs and leadership has increased significantly in recent decades, the study of contemporary leadership styles and/or theories in PE programs has been limited. The results highlight an opportunity for additional interdisciplinary research that may lead to more effective PE program implementation.

Effectiveness of Ergonomic Training Program on Knowledge, Self-efficacy and Practice on Prevention of Work Related low Back Pain among Staff Nurses

Background: Low back pain is a major occupational problem among health care workers. Body mechanicsand Ergonomic programs can prevent low back pain amongs them. The aim of the study was to assess andcompare knowledge, self-efficacy and practice on prevention of work related low back pain among staffnurses before and after administration of Ergonomic Training Program in experimental and comparisongroup.Methods: A Quasi Experimental Non Equivalent Control Group Pre-test and Post-test Design was used.Eighty staff nurses from MMIMS&amp;R Hospital, Mullana were selected by convenience sampling technique.Ergonomic Training Program was administered in experimental group for two days. Standardised Nordicquestionnaire for low back pain, Pain assessment scale, structured knowledge questionnaire, structured selfefficacy scale and structured observational checklist were used to collect data.Results: The study showed that there was a significant difference in the mean post-test knowledge (p=0.001)and practice (p=0.001) scores of staff nurses in experimental and comparison group. There was a significantdifference between the mean pre-test and post-test knowledge (p=0.001), self-efficacy (p=0.047) and practicescores (p=0.0001) in experimental group.Conclusion: Ergonomic Training Program was effective in improving the knowledge, self-efficacy andpractice on prevention of work related low back pain among staff nurses.