Knowledge and Practices of Ergonomics in Students of Private Universities Using Computers

Background: Using computers in an awkward posture for a prolonged period leads to musculoskeletal disorders. The proper use of ergonomics while using a computer or laptop is imperative. Improper use of computers may affect health and cause musculoskeletal disorders. Objective: To determine the knowledge and practices of ergonomics in students of private universities using computers or laptops. Methods: It was a cross-sectional survey conducted in different private universities in Lahore the data was collected through a self-made questionnaire. The sample size is 600 calculated by using a 90% confidence interval and a 5% margin of error. Data were collected from both male and female students aged between 18 to 26 years’ private university students using laptops or computers for at least five years and students who have musculoskeletal disorders and desktop computer users for less than five years were excluded. The categorical variables were evaluated by frequency and percentages, while mean and standard deviation were calculated by continuous variables. Results: Despite the presence of chair arms, 46.2% of employees can easily reach their workstations, while 53.8% are unable to do so. About 46.2 percent of people find it difficult to relax their arms and shoulders without the arms of their chair interfering. 53.8% of people can relax their arms and shoulders without being hindered by the arms of their chair. When working on a keyboard, 55.3% of people have their shoulders relaxed and not raised, whereas 44.7% have their shoulders raised and are not relaxed. 54% of people prefer to rest their arms at their sides rather than have them extended out in front of them, while 46% prefer not to rest their arms at their sides and instead have them stretched out in front of them. Conclusion: It was concluded that knowledge and practices of computer ergonomics in students are essential to avoid various health, postural and musculoskeletal problems. Ergonomics interventions aimed to prevent musculoskeletal disorders can be applied through the assessment of risks and safety measures. Similarly, occupational therapists and physical therapists can help computer workers regarding the posture and guidelines required for prolonged computer work.