Iranian Journal of Ergonomics

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Abstract

Introduction

The extensive development of written interactions in the current world of technology in one hand, and on the other hand noticeable dominance of English language in this milieu, has led to inadequate utilization of Farsi in such settings, even amongst native speakers. Lack of experimental data regarding legibility and readability of the printed and electronic texts related to this language has been the main theory behind the current research, which was designed to evaluate correlations between typography and reading performance.

Materials & Methods

Eighty four Farsi speaking university students, having no specific visual impairments, took part in the study. Frequently used Farsi fonts, edited in equal pixel areas and sizes, and were evaluated through legibility and readability tests. Word detection and word search techniques were considered for each test respectively. All trails were designed within similar visual interaction conditions to avoid any background biases.

Results

Statistical analyses revealed correlations between typography and readying performance in Farsi (compared to English). Amongst the six frequently used fonts studied, legibility was significantly higher in Yekan, t (83) = -2.649, p=0.012. Likewise readability was found to be significantly smoother in Zar font, t (83) = - 2.194, p=0.037.

Conclusion

On the whole, the current approach towards classification of Persian fonts confirms the outcomes of the present study. In other words, fonts frequently used for development of body of the texts usually have higher legibility, and types being utilized for presentation purposes mainly possess higher readability.

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Introduction: Job satisfaction and productivity among industrial workforce depend on multiple factors. Among these factors, designing the workstation based on bodily characteristics and dimensions of the workers is of critical significance. Since industrial chairs have direct impacts on biomechanical and anthropometric compatibility, they play a major role in enhancing workers’ interaction with their workplace. The current study approached the redesign of such a product with a focus on ergonomics. Materials and Methods: The present research was a typical combined design project. In the quantitative phase, 90 participants underwent 12 anthropometric measurements (which were important in designing industrial chairs). The underlying cognitive aspects of the question were evaluated via qualitative methodologies. Results: Since normal distribution of the data was confirmed, raw anthropometric data were descriptively processed and reported. Cognitive assessments revealed correlations between correct form and softness of the backrest, and appropriate slope of the seat-pan, being a main factor determining the level of comfort while interacting with industrial chairs. Conclusion: Diverse physical constraints and conditions caused by the variety of duties and workstations have made it somehow difficult for specialists to design a universal industrial chair functioning in all different contexts. Nevertheless, the current study confirmed the effectiveness of involving personnel in redesigning the workplace and easing the challenges.

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Introduction: Different studies around the world have shown that Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSDs) are the causes of lost time, absenteeism, and disability. The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence rate of musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) and to evaluate their ergonomic risk factors and determine the effect of ergonomic intervention on awkward postures among workers of Saipa Diesel Truck manufacturing plants.
Methods: This interventional study (Before-after) was conducted on 130 workers of 2 largest truck-manufacturing plants in Iran. The prevalence rate of MSDs and ergonomic risk factors was assessed by valid and reliable translated Body Map Questionnaire (BM) and Quick Exposure Check (QEC) method, respectively.
Results: According to Body Map results, 87.5% of participants had MSDs at least in one of their eleven body regions during the previous year, before study. The highest prevalence rate of MSDs was observed in lower back (51.5%) and foot area (18.5%). Chi square test revealed that the prevalence rate of MSDs was higher among those with higher QEC risk level (P < 0.001). Results also indicated the significant effect of ergonomic interventions on reducing the prevalence rate of MSDs and QEC risk level (P < 0.001).
Conclusions: This study showed that the prevalence rate of MSDs and QEC risk levels among workers was significantly high. Therefore, it can be mentioned that the need for early ergonomic interventions is felt in all industrial units of these truck-manufacturing plants.