Exploring Ergonomic Risk Factors and Discomfort Levels in Work-from-Home Settings: A Study during the COVID-19 Pandemic
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Abstract
This study examines the impact of working from home on the ergonomic risk factors and discomfort experienced by workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the many benefits of working from home, such as increased productivity and flexible working hours, it also presents numerous ergonomic threats, including suboptimal working postures, poor workstation design, uncontrolled working hours, and poor indoor environmental quality. The study aims to identify the risk factors for discomfort among workers who work from home during the COVID-19 pandemic by using an ergonomic assessment tool. The study used an anonymous online questionnaire in Thai, posted on social media platforms, and had a sample size of 303 Thai participants aged 20 years and above, working from home, and using computer for work. Data were obtained through a three-section questionnaire that collected demographic information, workstation assessment, and discomfort scale. The results showed that there is a significant relationship between ergonomic factors and discomfort in the neck, lower back, and legs such as chair, workstation, and breaks. The study concludes that ergonomic assessment tools are essential in identifying potential ergonomic risks and improving the health and safety of workers. Such tools can be tailored to specific industries, job types, or work environments, making them more useful and applicable for different workplaces. This study's findings will help occupational health professionals and policymakers develop and implement effective ergonomic interventions to mitigate ergonomic risks and prevent work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among workers who work from home during the pandemic.
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