Developing a new adjustable ergonomic armrests for computer keyboard operators

Abstract

Background and aims The study is aimed at designing and testing a new ergonomic armrest that can address musculoskeletal problems among computer keyboard operators in Iran. Methods  Twenty seven operators from an educational institute were selected as subjects. Direct observations and subjective assessment using Karlqvist et al.'s (1996) questionnaires were used to discover the weaknesses of their existing armrest. The existing armrest was replaced with the new armrest which allows height adjustment, and length, width and direction/rotation movements to suite various arm positions for keying and mousing tasks. Data on the hand and arm postures were collected and compared to common armrest. Results With the new armrest, results showed significant improvements in the postures of forearm, elbow, hand and wrist which facilitate easy access of the entire surface of keyboard and mouse. In addition, majority of the subjects were satisfied, in different aspects, with the use of the ergonomic armrest . Conclusion  Because of its positive and dynamic features, the new armrest could well be replaced with the traditional and even forign ergonomic armrests attachable to the table. The new armrest do not disrupt the user’s job.

Keywords

• Adjustable and Moveable Armrest
• Design
• Posture
• Intervention Study
• Ergonomic