Ergonomic Adjustments and Work Efficiency in Work from Home Computer Users

Abstract

Background: The COVID19 pandemic has displaced millions of people worldwide, forcing them to work from home (WFH) as the “NEW MORMAL”. Many workers are pushed to work in less than ideal settings during the pandemic situation. A prime component of this transitioning to WFH is the effect on worker’s work productivity, efficiency and their work ability. Objective: To determine the impact of ergonomic adjustments on work efficiency of computer based WFH employees. Method: In this cross-sectional study, 200 computer workers who switched to WFH during the lockdown period participated in an online survey. The e-form comprised of multiple categories, with questions asking about the worker’s demographics, ergonomic adjustments and their work efficiency was send to all the participants using various social media applications. Results: In the present study, out of 200 subjects, 171 subjects had completed the study. The results showed that out of 171 employees, 106 employees (62%) responded as the work productivity/efficiency in the home environment compared to working in the workplace is efficient and 2 (1.2%) employees responded as more insufficient and 81 (47.4%) employees rated their work ability in relation to demand as very good and 2 (1.2%) employees rated their work ability in relation to demand as rather poor. Productivity is significantly associated with level of the screen height while working at home, lean right/left/forward/backward because of glare on the screen while working at home, rest time while working from home with p<0.05. Thus, most of the ergonomic adjustments significantly increases the efficiency/productivity in working among work from home computer users. Conclusion: The findings indicate that the self-reported productivity and work ability of computer users working from home has been increased with the ergonomic adjustments that they have adapted at home while working.