Work-Related Health Disorders among Saudi Computer Users

Abstract

The present study was conducted to investigate the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders and eye and vision complaints among the computer users of King Abdulaziz University (KAU), Saudi Arabian Airlines (SAUDIA), and Saudi Telecom Company (STC). Stratified random samples of the work stations and operators at each of the studied institutions were selected and the ergonomics of the work stations were assessed and the operators' health complaints were investigated. The average ergonomic score of the studied work station at STC, KAU, and SAUDIA was 81.5%, 73.3%, and 70.3, respectively. Most of the examined operators use computers daily for ≤ 7 hours, yet they had some average incidences of general complaints (e.g., headache, body fatigue, and lack of concentration) and relatively high level of incidences of eye and vision complaints and musculoskeletal complaints. The incidences of the complaints have been found to increase with the (a) decrease in work station ergonomic score, (b) progress of age and duration of employment, (c) smoking, (d) use of computers, (e) lack of work satisfaction, and (f) history of operators' previous ailments. It has been recommended to improve the ergonomics of the work stations, set up training programs, and conduct preplacement and periodical examinations for operators.

Development and validation of computer induced distress and factors influencing technostress among ICT users

“…The present findings are in agreement with related empirical findings. For example, the present finding on non-provision of ergonomics comfortable computer workstation is in consonance with the findings of Asaolu and Itsekor (2014), (Momodu Bayo et al, 2014), (Jomoah, 2014) who found that the incidences of general complaints of computer users surround the poor or decrease in work station ergonomics provisions. In Nigeria, this can be in connection with recent findings by Olabode et al (2017) that several factors such as awareness, resources constraints, communication and integration disconnection between employees and equipment designers, technological changes and insufficient relevant studies inhibited the efficient implementations in Nigeria.…”

“…For instance , Johnson, Onigbinde, Onasanya, Emechete, and Gbela (2009) observed in Nigeria University community, that common complaint among computer users is back pain, neck, eyes and wrist pain. Also, Jomoah (2014) found that computer users' complaints increase with the decrease in workstation ergonomic score, progress of age and duration of employment. Past empirical findings have reported the effect of age on technostress.…”

Computer-related health problems among university students in Majmaah region, Saudi Arabia

“…Neglecting the principles of ergonomics during computer utility raises the risk of health problems [5]. Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), Visual symptoms and Insomnia are the common health problems amongst computer users [6][7][8][9]. ''Musculoskeletal disorders'' covers an extensive range of conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system including the joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, peripheral nerves, and supporting blood vessels [10,11].…”

Impact of Computer Misuse in the Workplace

“…[2] It is reported that 25% of computer users are suffering from CRIs and MSDs are the most prevalent disorders among office workers. [3,4] The neck and shoulders pain was mostly experienced by the office workers, followed by CVS such as eyestrain, blurred vision, and headache. [4,5] It is undeniable that computer is an important device to manage a lot of activities and jobs, but a long period of using a computer may increase the chances of developing CRIs.…”