Research Mentor(s)
Al-Quadah, Sura
Description
After long hours in the computer lab, students from the manufacturing engineering program began studying the ergonomic conditions of the high traffic computer labs. Existing literature was reviewed to examine similar studies in offices and universities. Research involving health risks related to prolonged periods of sitting was surveyed to determine if WWU engineering students were at risk. The research conducted included RULA (rapid upper limb assessment) and ROSA (rapid office strain assessment) analyses of current desk design compared to analyses of proposed designs. Students who regularly use the workstations were surveyed to gather information about the student's major, their year of study, and how much time they spend at the desks. The students were also asked to provide feedback on how to improve the workstations. Results of the RULA and ROSA analysis indicate that the current design is high risk, and further investigation and change may be needed. 94% of the students who responded to the survey agreed or strongly agreed that the ergonomics of the desks in the computer lab could be improved. 73% also agreed or strongly agreed that their physical health would improve with better ergonomics in the computer labs. Many of the suggestions from the students included better chairs and adjustability for the range of students who use the workstations. Researchers applied for a grant through the Sustainable Action Fund at Western Washington University, but were denied due to an existing request for updated workstations in a minor capital budget proposal submitted annually by the engineering department for the last 4 years. The workstation analyses and survey results point to students needing and wanting updated workstations. The SAF believes that workstations should be state-funded, but with no indication that funding will be granted, many students are stuck using ergonomically unsuitable desks over 20 hours per week.
Document Type
Event
Start Date
17-5-2018 12:00 PM
End Date
17-5-2018 3:00 PM
Department
Engineering and Design
Genre/Form
student projects, posters
Subjects – Topical (LCSH)
Human engineering; Computation laboratories--Safety measures; Industrial safety; Universities and colleges--Safety measures
Geographic Coverage
United States
Type
Image
Keywords
Ergonomics, Sit-Stand Desks, chairs, Engineering department, student survey, RULA, ROSA, Sustainable action fund
Rights
Copying of this document in whole or in part is allowable only for scholarly purposes. It is understood, however, that any copying or publication of this document for commercial purposes, or for financial gain, shall not be allowed without the author’s written permission.
Language
English
Format
application/pdf
Included in
Standing Up for Ergonomics
After long hours in the computer lab, students from the manufacturing engineering program began studying the ergonomic conditions of the high traffic computer labs. Existing literature was reviewed to examine similar studies in offices and universities. Research involving health risks related to prolonged periods of sitting was surveyed to determine if WWU engineering students were at risk. The research conducted included RULA (rapid upper limb assessment) and ROSA (rapid office strain assessment) analyses of current desk design compared to analyses of proposed designs. Students who regularly use the workstations were surveyed to gather information about the student's major, their year of study, and how much time they spend at the desks. The students were also asked to provide feedback on how to improve the workstations. Results of the RULA and ROSA analysis indicate that the current design is high risk, and further investigation and change may be needed. 94% of the students who responded to the survey agreed or strongly agreed that the ergonomics of the desks in the computer lab could be improved. 73% also agreed or strongly agreed that their physical health would improve with better ergonomics in the computer labs. Many of the suggestions from the students included better chairs and adjustability for the range of students who use the workstations. Researchers applied for a grant through the Sustainable Action Fund at Western Washington University, but were denied due to an existing request for updated workstations in a minor capital budget proposal submitted annually by the engineering department for the last 4 years. The workstation analyses and survey results point to students needing and wanting updated workstations. The SAF believes that workstations should be state-funded, but with no indication that funding will be granted, many students are stuck using ergonomically unsuitable desks over 20 hours per week.
Comments
Outstanding Poster Award Recipient