This study evaluates a workstation ergonomics program at Al-Baha University aimed at reducing work-related musculoskeletal symptoms among university employees who use computers regularly. The program includes an ergonomics self-assessment of the workstation, individualized guidance on proper workstation setup and posture, and practical recommendations to improve daily work habits. Participants will be followed for approximately four weeks, and changes in musculoskeletal symptoms and related outcomes will be assessed before and after the program, compared with a usual-practice control group.
Adults aged 18-55 years.
Affiliated with Al-Baha University (staff, or faculty) and regularly use a computer workstation (≥3 hours/day or ≥15 hours/week).
Able to read and complete the online questionnaire and provide informed consent.
Current severe musculoskeletal disorder or recent major injury/surgery that markedly limits daily activities or requires ongoing medical treatment.
Diagnosed neurological or rheumatologic condition affecting the musculoskeletal system (e.g., severe radiculopathy, inflammatory arthritis).
Pregnancy (if you prefer to exclude it).
Participation in another ergonomics intervention program during the study period.
Parallel
Workstation Ergonomics Program
BehavioralParticipants in the intervention arm will complete an online computer workstation self-assessment checklist. Based on their responses, they will receive individualized workstation ergonomics guidance and educational materials covering optimal sitting posture and workstation setup (chair/desk height, monitor position, keyboard/mouse placement, and lighting), as well as recommendations for regular micro-breaks and simple stretching. Guidance will be delivered electronically after baseline assessment, and participants will be encouraged to implement the recommendations throughout the follow-up period (4 weeks) with reinforcement reminders.
Usual Practice (Control)
BehavioralParticipants in the control arm will receive no ergonomics training, individualized recommendations, or educational materials during the study period and will continue their usual computer workstation practices. After completion of follow-up assessments, the control group will be offered the same ergonomics educational materials and general workstation guidance provided to the intervention arm.
Change in musculoskeletal symptoms (Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire [NMQ])
Change from baseline in musculoskeletal symptom burden measured using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ). The outcome will be calculated as the number of body regions with self-reported musculoskeletal symptoms (Yes/No) during the last 12 months, summed across assessed regions (range: 0 to 8, where 0 = no symptoms in any region and 8 = symptoms in all regions). Higher values indicate worse musculoskeletal symptoms. Outcomes will be compared between the intervention and control arms.
Change in workstation ergonomics score (Computer Workstation Ergonomics: Self-Assessment Checklist)
Change from baseline in workstation ergonomics measured using the Computer Workstation Ergonomics: Self-Assessment Checklist. The outcome will be calculated as the total checklist score, summed across all items (range: 0 to 20), where higher scores indicate better workstation ergonomics (better setup). Outcomes will be compared between the intervention and control arms.
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