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A new method for calculating saddle seat height with an emphasis on optimal posture based on trigonometric relations

Babaei H., Razeghi M., Choobineh A., Pakshir H., Rajaeifard A., Rezaian J.

International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics

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2016

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Vol. 22, No. 4

565--571

EN

Introduction. Based on the literature, the ergonomic saddle chair provides the most appropriate posture for users. Determination of the seat height is critical to establish the proper posture, carried out using various methods of anthropometry. This study aimed to develop a simple and applied method for determining the saddle seat height with an emphasis on appropriate posture. Methods. In this study, anthropometric dimensions including weight, body height, popliteal height and seat height at 135° knee angle in 150 male and female dentists were measured. In the laboratory, to determine the ‘acetabuloischial number’, 25 male and female natural hip bones were measured. The mean saddle-chair height with knee angle of 135° was then compared by two different methods, field measurement and the new calculation method. Results. The results showed a strong correlation between data gathered from the two different methods, the field measurement and the new calculation method (98%), and Cronbach’s α from the intraclass correlation was equal to 0.994 (p < 0.05). This indicated that the two methods produced similar results. Conclusion. The new method can be applied to calculate the optimal height of the saddle seat based on body height and popliteal height.

2

Relationship between circadian rhythm amplitude and stability with sleep quality and sleepiness among shift nurses and health care workers

Roodbandi A. J., Choobineh A., Daneshvar S.

International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics

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2015

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Vol. 21, No. 3

312--317

EN

Introduction: Sleep is affected by the circadian cycle and its features. Amplitude and stability of circadian rhythm are important parameters of the circadian cycle. This study aims to examine the relationship between amplitude and stability of circadian rhythm with sleep quality and sleepiness. Method: In this cross-sectional research, 315 shift nurses and health care workers from educational hospitals of Kerman University of Medical Sciences (KUMS), Iran, were selected using a random sampling method. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) and Circadian Type Inventory (CTI) were used to collect the required data. Results: In this study, 83.2% suffered from poor sleep and one-half had moderate and excessive sleepiness. The results showed that flexibility in circadian rhythm stability, job stress and sleepiness are among the factors affecting quality sleep in shift workers. Discussion: Those whose circadian rhythm amplitude was languid suffered more from sleepiness and those whose circadian stability was flexible had a better sleep. Variables including circadian rhythm stability (flexible/rigid) and amplitude (languid/vigorous) can act as predictive indices in order to employ people in a shift work system so that sleepiness and a drop in quality of sleep are prevented.

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Assessment of functional parameters and comfort of a new computer mouse as compared with other types of input devices

Dehghan N., Choobineh A., Razeghi M., Hasanzadeh J., Irandoost M., Ebrahimi S.

International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics

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2015

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Vol. 21, No. 4

493--497

EN

Background. This study was conducted to assess functional parameters and comfort of a new computer mouse (Ergomice) as compared with three other input devices. Materials and methods. Functional parameters (i.e., task completion time and error rate) of each device were assessed by 10 participants using standardized software based on Standard No. ISO 9241-9:2000. Comfort evaluation was also undertaken for each device using the visual analogue scale technique. Statistical analysis including the Wilcoxon signed-rank test and the Friedman test was performed using SPSS version 16. Results. The functional parameters of the standard mouse were better than those of the other devices. However, no significant difference was observed between this mouse and Ergomice. Overall comfort evaluation showed that the standard mouse and Ergomice were more comfortable to work with. The comfort level of hand/wrist posture in the Ergomice was higher than that of the other three devices. Conclusion. The design features of Ergomice could improve its functional properties. Hand/wrist posture comfort of Ergomice was judged to be high compared with that of the other devices.

4

Postural Loading Assessment in Assembly Workers of an Iranian Telecommunication Manufacturing Company

Kamalinia M., Saraji G. N., Kee D., Hosseini M., Choobineh A

International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics

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2013

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Vol. 19, No. 2

311--319

EN

Background. Changes in industries and work practices have coincided with work-related musculoskeletal disorders(MSDs). This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of MSDs and to assess postural loading in assembly workers of an Iranian telecommunication manufacturing company. Methods. Data were collected from 193 randomly selected workers in 4 units of the company. The Nordic musculoskeletal disorders questionnaire and the UBC ergonomic checklist were used as data collection tools. Loading on the upper body assessment(LUBA) was used to assess postural loading. Results. Lower back symptoms were the most prevalent problems among the workers (67.9%). LUBA showed that most assembly workers (94.3%) had experienced considerable and high postural loading (postural load index, PLI > 5). Regression analyses revealed that lighting, rotation, contact stress, repetition, gender and age were factors associated with symptoms. Conclusion. Work-related MSDs occurred at a high rate among workers. Postural loading requires consideration. Any ergonomic intervention should focus on eliminating ergonomic factors associated with symptoms.

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Musculoskeletal Risk Assessment in Small Furniture Manufacturing Workshops

Nejad N. H., Choobineh A., Rahimifard H., Haidari H. R., Tabatabaei S. H. R.

International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics

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2013

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Vol. 19, No. 2

275--284

EN

In Iran, furniture is mainly manufactured in small workshops, where most activities are performed manually. This study was conducted among workers of furniture workshops to determine prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms and to assess ergonomic working conditions to identify major risk factors associated with musculoskeletal symptoms. In this study, 410 randomly selected furniture workers participated. The Nordic questionnaire and an ergonomics checklist consisting of 6 sections were used as data collection tools. An index was calculated for each section of the checklist. Action categories indicating the priority of corrective measures were also defined. The highest prevalence of symptoms was reported in the knees (39%), lower back (35.6%) and wrists/hands (29.5%). It was found that manual material handling, poor workstation design and awkward working postures were associated with the reported symptoms in these regions (OR 1.77–4.52). Poor general working conditions and work organization showed association as well. Any interventional measures should focus on these areas.

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Estimation of Aerobic Capacity and Determination of Its Associated Factors Among Male Workers of Industrial Sector of Iran

Daneshmandi H., Fard A. R., Choobineh A.

International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics

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2013

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Vol. 19, No. 4

667--673

EN

Introduction. The aim of this study was to estimate maximal aerobic capacity (VO2 max), to determine its associated factors among workers of industrial sector of Iran and to develop a regression equation for subjects’ VO2 max. Methods. In this study, 500 healthy male workers employed in Shiraz industries participated voluntarily. The subjects’ VO2 max was assessed with the ergocycle test according to the Åstrand protocol. Required data was collected with a questionnaire covering demographic details (i.e., age, job tenure, marital status, education, nature of work, shift work, smoking and weekly exercises). Results. The subject’s mean VO2 max was 2.69 ± 0.263 l/min. The results showed that there was an association between VO2 max and age, BMI, hours of exercise and smoking, but there was no association between VO2 max and height, weight, nature of work and working schedule. On the basis of the results, regression equations were developed to estimate VO2 max. Conclusion. Final regression equation developed in this study may be used to estimate VO2 max reliably without the need to use other laboratory instruments for aerobic measurement.

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Health Effects Associated With Shift Work in 12-Hour Shift Schedule Among Iranian Petrochemical Employees

Choobineh A., Soltanzadeh A., Tabatabaee H., Jahangiri M., Khavaji S.

International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics

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2012

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Vol. 18, No. 3

419--427

EN

Introduction. The main purposes of this study were to investigate shift-work-related health problems in 12-h shift schedule and to identify major factors associated with these problems. Materials and methods. This cross-sectional study was conducted at 8 petrochemical plants. The study population consisted of 1203 workers (549 shift and 654 day workers). Data on personal details, the shift schedule and adverse health outcomes were collected with a self-administered questionnaire. Results. The results showed that health problems in shift workers were more prevalent than in day workers; however, the differences were significant only in gastrointestinal and musculoskeletal disorders. Logistic regression analysis revealed that in addition to shift work, other variables such as extended work time, type of employment, second job and job unit were associated with health problems. Conclusions. Working shifts is one important variable influencing the health of petrochemical workers. To improve workers’ health, interventional program should focus on the shift schedule as well as other significant aspects of working conditions.

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Health Effects Associated With Long-Term Occupational Exposure of Employees of a Chlor-Alkali Plant to Mercury

Neghab M., Norouzi M. A., Choobineh A., Kardaniyan M.R., Zadeh J. H.

International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics

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2012

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Vol. 18, No. 1

97--106

EN

This study aimed to evaluate possible health effects associated with long-term occupational exposure to low levels of mercury vapors. Forty-six subjects exposed to mercury and 65 healthy unexposed employees were studied. The subjects were administered a questionnaire on experienced symptoms and underwent clinical examinations as well as routine biochemical tests. Atmospheric and urinary concentrations of mercury were measured, too. Environmental concentrations of mercury were estimated to be 3.97 ± 6.28 μg/m3 and urinary concentrations of mercury in exposed and referent groups were 34.30 ± 26.77 and 10.15 ± 3.82 μg/dm3, respectively. Additionally, symptoms such as somatic fatigue, anorexia, loss of memory, erethism, blurred vision and teeth problems were significantly more common among exposed individuals. These observations indicate that occupational exposure to mercury vapors, even at low levels, is likely to be associated with neurological and psychological symptoms.

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Musculoskeletal Problems Among Workers of an Iranian Sugar-Producing Factory

Choobineh A., Tabatabaee S. H., Behzadi M.

International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics

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2009

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Vol. 15, No. 4

419--424

EN

Background. Assessment of the level of exposure to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) risk factors can be an appropriate basis for planning and implementing an interventional ergonomics program in the workplace. This study was conducted among workers of an Iranian sugar-producing factory to determine WMSD prevalence rate among production workers and to assess the level of exposure to WMSD risks. Materials and methods. In total, 116 workers were randomly selected from production workshops and included in the study. The Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire was used to study prevalence of WMSDs and a quick exposure check (QEC) was used to assess physical exposure to risks. Required data were videotaped. Results. Most workers (87.1%) suffered from some kind of MSD symptoms during the 12 months prior to the study. The highest prevalence was reported in knees (58.6%) and the lower back (54.3%). In 99.1% of the workers, the level exposure to MSD risks established with QEC was high and very high. Awkward postures, manual material handling, and long hours of standing were the major ergonomics problems. Conclusion. There was a here was a high rate of WMSDs in this factory. The level of exposure to WMSD risk factors was high and corrective measures for reducing risk level were essential.

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Association Between Perceived Demands and Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Hospital Nurses of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences: A Questionnaire Survey

Choobineh A., Rajaeefard A., Neghab M.

International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics

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2006

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Vol. 12, No. 4

409--416

EN

Excessive demands on nurses may result in high rates of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). This study was conducted among hospital nurses of Iran’s Shiraz University of Medical Sciences (SUMS) to determine the prevalence of MSDs and to examine the relationship between perceived demands and reported MSDs. In this study, 641 randomly selected nurses from 12 SUMS hospitals participated. The Nordic musculoskeletal disorders questionnaire and Job Content Questionnaire were used as collecting data tools.The results showed that 84.4% of the participants had experienced some form of symptoms of MSDs during the past 12 months. Lower back symptoms were found to be the most prevalent problem. Perceived physical demands were significantly associated with MSDs (OR = 1.5–2.7). No association was found between perceived psychological demands and reported symptoms. It was concluded that any intervention program for preventing MSDs among SUMS hospital nurses had to focus on reducing physical demands, particularly excessive postural demands.

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Workstation Design in Carpet Hand-Weaving Operation : Guidelines for Prevention of Musculoskeletal Disorders

Choobineh A., Lahmi M., Hosseini M., Shahnavaz H., Jazani R. K.

International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics

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2004

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Vol. 10, No. 4

411--424

EN

Carpet weavers suffer from musculoskeletal problems mainly attributed to poor working postures. Their posture is mostly constrained by the design of workstations. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of 2 design parameters (weaving height and seat type) on postural variables and subjective experience, and to develop guidelines for workstation adjustments. At an experimental workstation, 30 professional weavers worked in 9 different conditions. Working posture and weavers’ perceptions were measured. It was shown that head, neck and shoulder postures were influenced by weaving height. Both design parameters influenced trunk and elbows postures. The determinant factor for weavers’ perception on the neck, shoulders and elbows was found to be weaving height, and on the back and knees it was seat type. Based on the results, the following guidelines were developed: (a) weaving height should be adjusted to 20 cm above elbow height; (b) a 10º forward-sloping high seat is to be used at weaving workstations.

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Musculoskeletal Symptoms as Related to Ergonomic Factors in Iranian Hand-Woven Carpet Industry and General Guidelines for Workstation Design

Choobineh A., Lahmi M., Shahnavaz H., Jazani R. K., Hosseini M.

International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics

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2004

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Vol. 10, No. 2

157--168

EN

Carpet weaving is a high risk occupation for developing musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). The objectives of the present study, which was carried out in the Iranian hand-woven carpet industry, were determination of the prevalence of MSD symptoms, identification of major factors associated with MSD symptoms and development of guidelines for workstation design. 1,439 randomly selected weavers participated in this study. A questionnaire was used to collect data on MSD symptoms. The results revealed that the prevalence rates for symptoms in different body regions were high as compared to the general Iranian population (for neck, back and large joints, p < .0001). The results of multivariate analyses showed that major ergonomic factors associated with musculoskeletal symptoms were loom type, working posture, daily working time and seat type. Based on the results, some general guidelines for designing weaving workstations were developed. A prototype test showed that the new workstation was acceptable for subject tests and that it improved working posture.

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Major Health Risk Factors in Iranian Hand-Woven Carpet Industry

Choobineh A., Shahnavaz H., Lahmi M.

International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics

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2004

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Vol. 10, No. 1

65--78

EN

This paper reviews the role and importance of small-scale industries together with the issue of occupational health problems and their causes in Iranian hand-woven carpet industry as a typical informal small-scale industry in an industrially developing country. The objective of this paper is to review health risk factors and related occupational health and ergonomic problems in the carpet industry. Since the overwhelming majority of weavers. health problems originate from ergonomic risk factors, it is concluded that any improvement program in this industry should focus on ergonomic aspects. To assess ergonomic conditions in weaving workshops, a checklist has been developed and an ergonomics index indicating the ergonomic conditions of the workshop has been proposed. To test and verify the checklist, 50 weaving workshops were visited and their ergonomic conditions were assessed. Based on the results some modifications were made and the checklist was shown to be an effective tool.