Analysis of Musculoskeletal Disorders in University Administrative Staff: A Necessary Ergonomic Assessment

Abstract

Musculoskeletal disorders in work environments with repetitive tasks and long-period forced postures are common. A university’s administrative staff presented a high incidence of musculoskeletal disorders in the neck, lower back, shoulder, and wrist. Preventive measures should be taken to improve ergonomic conditions and minimize the risk of chronic injuries. The evaluation using the RULA method, and the Nordic Questionnaire revealed a medium to a high incidence of musculoskeletal discomfort in administrative staff. The position adopted by users strongly influences this situation, and it is recommended to follow ergonomic recommendations to minimize ergonomic risks. Forced postures in specific body areas, such as the neck, shoulder, and wrist, should be corrected with changes in the task and study, even redesigning them. The Nordic Questionnaire found that 100% of the participants feel neck, lower back, and elbow discomfort and 87.5% in the shoulder and hand/wrist. The discomfort lasts over three months, forcing 87.5% of people to change jobs. The intensity of the discomfort is moderate, and its origin has been mainly forced postures in the neck and lower back and repetitive movements in the hand/wrist. This shows the need to take preventive measures to improve ergonomic conditions and reduce the risk of injuries and chronic discomfort in employees.