A comprehensive work injury prevention program with clerical and office workers: Phase II

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Gatty, Carolyn M.

Affiliations: Chatham College, Woodland Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA. Tel.: +1 412 365 1695; Fax: +1 412 365 1213; E-mail: gatty@chatham.edu

Abstract: Sixteen full-time clerical and office workers participated in this prospective parallel-randomized trial. Intervention consisted of four hours of individualized training through a multi-faceted injury prevention program. In Phase I, musculoskeletal symptoms, stress, and energy levels were measured before and after intervention. Differences between Group A (intervention) and Group B (control) were described; pre to post differences between members within each group were also described [10]. In Phase II, there were a greater number of statistically and clinically relevant differences within Group A at week 16 (eleven weeks following intervention) than at week five (immediately post-intervention). The eyes, neck, shoulder, elbow-forearm, and wrist-hand were impacted most positively by intervention, however, the frequency and intensity of headaches increased. Stress and energy level differences were minimal. Group B workers received intervention during weeks 18–21. Differences in average measures from pre to immediately post-intervention were greater within Group B than Group A. Both groups reported fewer sick days during the month of intervention than during pre and post-intervention months.

Keywords: ergonomics, musculoskeletal disorders, job modification

Journal: Work, vol. 23, no. 2, pp. 131-137, 2004