Workstation improvement for reducing ergonomic risks of microscope users

Abstract

Using a microscope often requires the user to work in repetitive postures for long periods of time, which can lead to fatigue and muscle dysfunction. The objectives of this research were 1) to assess the degree of fatigue of microscope users, 2) to assess the level of ergonomics risk in microscope users, and 3) to improve workstation to be suitable for ergonomic principles. The sample group in this study was twenty-two microscopes users at Suranaree University of Technology. The Body Discomfort assessment was used for evaluation of fatigue of users. Ergonomics risks of users was assessed by using Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) technique. The results of the user's fatigue level found that the most fatigued positions were neck, shoulders, upper back, upper arms, elbows, hands and wrists. The RULA risk assessment found that the Final Score was in Level 3 (additional studies and continuous monitoring may be needed, new work design may be needed) The researcher has therefore renovated the work station by designing and replacing the chair to be appropriate with anthropometric data nature of work by providing a backrest that supports the lumbar spine, an adjustable chair height and softer seat cushion. The improvement results showed that the risk level with RULA was reduced to level 2 (acceptable, but there may be an ergonomic problem if the work was performed repeatedly for a longer period of time). decreased feeling of fatigue. As a result, most users are satisfied with the improvement of the microscope workstation at a high level.