Effectiveness of a library ergonomics training program

Abstract

This study evaluated the effectiveness of a library ergonomics training program. The training was aimed at teaching librarians to apply sound ergonomics principles in their daily work activities and to evaluate and adjust their own workstations, with an ultimate goal of reducing musculoskeletal symptoms. The pre-and post-training ergonomics knowledge tests were distributed to the 39 subjects that participated in the project. In addition, work environment and health questionnaires were administered to the subjects before and 2 months after the program to examine changes in self-reported musculoskeletal symptoms, computer workstation configuration, and other pertinent activities. The results of ergonomics knowledge tests indicate statistically significant improvement of librarians’ understanding of ergonomics principles. There are also statistically significant positive changes in the questionnaire responses to the four specific questions: “break/rest every 2 hours”, “hand/wrist positions”, “handle more than 50 lbs”, and “bend or twist at the waist to handle objects”. The changes in other categories of the questionnaire, including the presence and severity of musculoskeletal symptoms and perceived control over the work environment, were not statistically significant; however, there was a trend toward positive improvement. Overall, the study findings accomplish the training program’s objective of assisting librarians to improve ergonomics in the workplace and to reduce musculoskeletal symptoms. The results of this study provide necessary foundation for an integrated participatory approach to reduce ergonomic injuries for librarians.