Workstation Ergonomics Program at Al-Baha University

Workstation Ergonomics Intervention to Reduce Musculoskeletal Symptoms Among University Employees

This study evaluates a workstation ergonomics program at Al-Baha University aimed at reducing work-related musculoskeletal symptoms among university employees who use computers regularly. The program includes an ergonomics self-assessment of the workstation, individualized guidance on proper workstation setup and posture, and practical recommendations to improve daily work habits. Participants will be followed for approximately four weeks, and changes in musculoskeletal symptoms and related outcomes will be assessed before and after the program, compared with a usual-practice control group.

This was a four-week, two-arm, parallel-group, open-label randomized controlled trial conducted among university employees at Al-Baha University. Eligible participants were randomized to either a workstation ergonomics intervention group or a usual-practice control group. Assessments were conducted at baseline and at the 4-week follow-up. The intervention consisted of a structured workstation ergonomics package including a computer workstation self-assessment checklist, individualized feedback and practical recommendations to optimize workstation arrangement and working posture, and brief reminders to support adherence during the follow-up period. The primary objective was to evaluate whether the ergonomics program reduced musculoskeletal symptom burden compared with usual practice in a real-world university workplace setting.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adults aged 18-55 years.
• Affiliated with Al-Baha University (staff, or faculty) and regularly use a computer workstation (≥3 hours/day or ≥15 hours/week).
• Able to read and complete the online questionnaire and provide informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Current severe musculoskeletal disorder or recent major injury/surgery that markedly limits daily activities or requires ongoing medical treatment.
• Diagnosed neurological or rheumatologic condition affecting the musculoskeletal system (e.g., severe radiculopathy, inflammatory arthritis).
• Pregnancy (if you prefer to exclude it).
• Participation in another ergonomics intervention program during the study period.