Ergonomic Computer Workstation Design for University Teachers in Bangladesh

The ever-growing use of computer in universities due to instructional, administrative, research and study is noticed among the teachers. Prolong sitting-work on the computer workstation causes various pains, discomforts and health related problems. The aim of this study is to design an ergonomic computer workstation to reduce the health-related problems. A Self-reported Nordic questionnaire was developed for conducting ergonomic assessment among 265 participants to evaluate heath conditions. Moreover, to determine the potential mismatch, 12 anthropometric measurements and existing furniture dimensions was measured and evaluated. Results showed that most of the teachers were suffered from different types of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), particularly, lower back pain and neck pain. Significant numbers of mismatches were found between furniture dimensions and anthropometric measurements. It can be concluded, presence of the musculoskeletal disorders would be the reason of inappropriate furniture dimensions. Finally, an ergonomic computer workstation was proposed by considering anthropometric measurements and guidelines to reduce the musculoskeletal disorders among the teachers. This research can contribute a lot for ergonomic furniture design to the university as well as other organizations and create a sense to overcome the ergonomic problems. (C) 2019 Jordan Journal of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering. All rights reserved