Ergonomics and remote learning: an assessment of risk factors in International Islamic University Malaysia

• Main Authors: Yustika Sari, Erlina, Mohd Mahudin, Nor Diana
• Format: Conference or Workshop Item
• Language: English
• Published: Universitas Islam Bandung 2021
• Subjects: BF636 Applied psychology; HD61 Risk Management; T59.7 Human engineering in industry. Man-machine systems
• Online Access: http://irep.iium.edu.my/96922/7/96922_Ergonomics%20and%20Remote%20Learning%20an%20assessment.pdf; http://irep.iium.edu.my/96922/; https://youtu.be/3vxlXOJVd7A

Neck, back, and wrist pain have been commonly detected in people who work on the computer for long hours. These problems may lead to discomfort or injury and even extend to musculoskeletal disorders. The COVID-19 pandemic has further intensified remote working and online learning, exposing people to a much higher risk of ergonomics problems. University students in Malaysia, too, have switched to online learning during this period. However, the effects of this switch on their physical ergonomics are yet to be examined. An ergonomics risk assessment was carried out using the Ergonomics Risk Assessment (ERA) at Workplace Guidelines by Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH), Malaysia, with the objectives of (i) identifying ergonomics risk factors that may cause harm to students during remote learning, (ii) determining the likelihood of harm arising from exposure to these risk factors, and (iii) recommending the appropriate control measures. Direct observations and video recordings of a female postgraduate student in International Islamic University Malaysia are used to obtain a detailed record of the participant's activity while studying remotely. Results indicate that awkward postures, high repetitive motion, and static or sustained postures are all present in this activity, with awkward postures contributing the highest risk. Accordingly, it is recommended that an advanced ergonomics risk assessment for these three risk factors be conducted, together with immediate training in ergonomics and postural hygiene. This advanced assessment will allow a more comprehensive evaluation of discomfort and pain experienced by the participant so that health problems can be minimized and injuries would be avoided.