Medical and Ergonomic Aspects of an Industrial Dispute Concerning Occupational‐related Conditions in Data Process Operators

Abstract

A union survey of occupation-related conditions in data process operators (DP0s)at the Melbourne Taxation Office revealed numerous ergonomic and environmental problems at the work site. Following industrial action because of the extent of occupation-related injury, a medical examination of DPOs was undertaken by a joint management/union team.A very high prevalence of occupation-related morbidity amongst 122 DPOs was found: 26% had significant problems requiring medical attention, 18% had physical signs of injury but had not sought medical attention, 38% were symptomatic but without signs, and only 18% had no problems. In all severity groups neck and shoulder disorders were the most common, folllowed by epicondylitis (elbow), and finally tenosynovitis of the forearm, wrist or hand.It was concluded by the medical assessors that the high rate of occupation-related disorders was a result of a combination of unfavourable ergonomic factors and high work rates.