The efficacy of workplace ergonomic interventions to control musculoskeletal disorders: A critical analysis of the peer-reviewed literature

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to examine the efficacy of workplace ergonomic interventions to control musculoskeletal disorders. The peer-reviewed literature prior to 1 January 1999 was examined and 101 studies were found that met the selection criteria. Eight studies involved back belt use (8.2%), 21 involved ergonomic and/or lifting training as the only or primary intervention (21.4%), 10 examined tools or technologies as the only interventions (9.8%), 15 were exercise interventions (11.2%), one involved job redesign (1%), and 47 studies involved multiple intervention components (48%) Eighty-four per cent of all of the studies found some positive results, although the majority had mixed results. Only 32% of the studies used experimental or quasi-experimental designs. The methodological, practical, and policy-related implications are discussed. Keywords: Ergonomic InterventionsMusculoskeletal DisordersOccupational Safety And Health