Affiliations: Occupational Medicine Care Service, New Territories
East Cluster, Hospital Authority, Hong Kong, China | Physiotherapy Department, Alice Ho Mui Ling Nethersole
Hospital, Tai Po, Hong Kong, China | Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Hong Kong
Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong, China
Note: [] Corresponding author: Edwin W.C. Lee, Prince of Wales Hospital,
New Territories, Hong Kong, China. Tel.: +852 26323154; Fax: +852 26324652;
E-mail: edwinlee@cuhk.edu.hk
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMDs) are
recognized as a major source of significant pain and disability in the
healthcare sector. However, they are preventable if appropriate surveillance
and intervention programs are implemented. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this paper is to describe the holistic
ergonomic approach that was used to address the multifactorial problems
encountered by healthcare workers in their daily work. METHODS: Using participatory ergonomics, healthcare workers in this
study teamed up with management and staff with expertise in ergonomic analysis,
design, and implementation of remedies. Selected participatory ergonomic
intervention programs targeted at an organizational level are elaborated.
Interventions included pre-work stretching, workplace surveillance at a
psychiatric department, on-site ergonomic teaching for community nurses, and
display screen equipment consultancy. DISCUSSIONS: Changes in workplace design, equipment re-arrangement,
awareness of proper posture, and adoption of good work practices all play
important roles in reducing musculoskeletal disorders among healthcare workers.
Prompt occupational medicine and rehabilitation services were also provided to
complement the work disability prevention process. The impact of the various
intervention programs on staff health, costs and productivity of the
organization are simultaneously discussed.
