Showing 120 results for Ergonomic
Zahra Jahani, Mahshid Namdari, Nastaran Keshavarz Mohammadi, Mahnaz Saremi,
Volume 13, Issue 2 (8-2025)
Abstract
Objectives: Musculoskeletal disorders, including back pain, are increasingly prevalent among school-aged children. Poor postural habits and improper backpack carriage are significant contributing factors. However, there is currently no comprehensive, standardized tool available to assess children’s knowledge of ergonomics related to spinal health.
Methods: This methodological study involved the development of a questionnaire through a seven-step process. Following the creation of the preliminary version and assessment of face validity, content validity was evaluated using the Content Validity Index (CVI) and Content Validity Ratio (CVR) by ten experts. The reliability of the instrument was assessed using a test-retest procedure with 15 students and internal consistency was evaluated using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient with a sample of 180 students.
Results: The final version of the questionnaire, entitled Kids’ Spine Ergonomics Awareness (KidSEA), comprised 13 items across three domains: "Spinal Anatomy," "Correct Posture," and "Ergonomics of Carrying School Supplies." The CVI and CVR for each item exceeded 0.79 and 0.62, respectively, indicating that all items were validated. Cohen’s kappa coefficient for individual items was above 0.41, and the overall Cronbach’s alpha was 0.74, demonstrating acceptable levels of reliability and internal consistency.
Conclusion: The KidSEA questionnaire is a valid and reliable instrument for assessing knowledge of ergonomic principles related to spinal health in children. It can be utilized to evaluate health literacy concerning spinal care, design targeted interventions, and inform educational programs for children in the studied age group. Further studies are recommended to establish the validity of the instrument across different age groups.
Maryam Momtaz-Bakhsh, Saeed Ghasemi, Nabi Omidi, Mohammadreza Omidi, Vahideh Menati,
Volume 13, Issue 2 (8-2025)
Abstract
Objectives: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are among the main occupational health challenges in industries with demanding working conditions, such as petrochemical plants. This study aimed to investigate the effect of a combined ergonomic and exercise intervention on pain reduction and motor performance improvement among the employees of Ilam Petrochemical Company.
Methods: This quasi-experimental study utilized a pre/posttest design with 40 male workers. Participants were randomly assigned to either an intervention group (receiving ergonomic training combined with exercise) or a control group. Data were collected using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire and Motor Performance Questionnaire. Following that, the obtained data were analyzed using independent t-tests and repeated measures ANOVA.
Results: The combined intervention significantly reduced pain in the lower back (55%), shoulders (56%), and knees (57%), while improving the total motor performance score (43%; P<0.001). Cohen’s d effect sizes ranged from 1.8 to 2.5, indicating high effectiveness.
Conclusion: The integration of ergonomic and exercise interventions led to a significant reduction in musculoskeletal pain and improvement in motor performance among petrochemical workers. These findings demonstrate the positive impact of the intervention on workers' motor performance indicators.
Nabi Omidi, Neda Sadat Jafari, Mohammad Reza Omidi, Yadollah Mahmoodi,
Volume 13, Issue 3 (9-2025)
Abstract
Objectives: In high‑risk operational environments, such as oil fields, physical and psychological factors can undermine employee productivity and positive organizational behaviors. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of ergonomic skills training on organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) and employee productivity among operational staff at the Azar Oil Field in Mehran, Iran.
Methods: This quasi‑experimental study, using a pretest–posttest design with a control group, was conducted on 40 male operational workers. Participants were randomly assigned to an ergonomic training group or a control group (20 individuals in each). Data were collected using the OCB Questionnaire developed by Podsakoff et al. (1990) and the Employee Productivity Questionnaire by Hersey and Goldsmith (1980). Paired t‑tests were applied to compare pretest and posttest scores within each group, independent t‑tests were used for between‑group comparisons, and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was employed to control for pretest scores.
Results: Following the four‑week ergonomic training intervention in 2024, with a follow‑up period of equal length (from the start of training to posttest), the intervention group demonstrated a significant increase in total OCB scores (from 105.6 to 118.4; +12.1%) and employee productivity scores (from 128.8 to 145.6; +13.0%) (p < 0.001). The most significant improvements in OCB were observed in altruism (+15.3%) and conscientiousness (+14.8%). In productivity, improvements were seen in motivation (+16.2%) and ability (+15.4%). Cohen’s d effect sizes ranged from 1.78 to 2.20, indicating very high practical significance. No significant changes were observed in the control group during the same period (p > 0.05).
Conclusion: Ergonomic skills training led to substantial improvements in OCB and productivity among employees in the Azar oil field. These findings underscore the strategic value of investing in ergonomic training as a practical approach to enhancing individual and organizational performance in high‑risk work environments.
Reza Masoudi, Zahra Saeidi, Shahla Abolhassani, Leili Rabiei,
Volume 13, Issue 3 (9-2025)
Abstract
Objectives: Healthcare staff, due to the nature of their job, are exposed to various occupational hazards, including ergonomic stressors, which can affect their health and lead to job burnout. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of ergonomic intervention on job burnout and resilience among employed nurses.
Methods: This semi-experimental study was conducted with 70 nurses employed at Shohada Lordegan Hospital in Lordegan, Iran, between 2018 and 2019. The study units were randomly assigned by block randomization into two groups: an intervention group and a control group. The ergonomic intervention consisted of four stages (education, work modification, a regular exercise program with supervision, support, and follow-up) applied to the intervention group. The control group received no intervention. Data were collected using a demographic questionnaire and the Maslach Burnout Inventory. The mean scores before, immediately after, and three months after the intervention were compared using SPSS (version 23) with an independent t-test, chi-square, and repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA).
Results: There was no significant difference in the mean job burnout score between the two groups before the intervention (p > 0.05). However, after the intervention, this difference became significant, with the intervention group showing less job burnout and greater resilience compared to the control group (p < 0.001).
Conclusion: The findings of this study showed that implementing ergonomic interventions among nurses can increase resilience and reduce job burnout. Given the effectiveness of the intervention, it is recommended that ergonomic training programs be included in nursing educational curricula.
Ali Afshari,
Volume 13, Issue 4 (1-2026)
Abstract
Objectives: With the expansion of digital technologies and the increasing use of smart tools in workplaces, challenges, such as musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and reduced employee productivity, have emerged. This study aimed to examine the impact of ergonomic digital workplace design and smart tools on MSDs and employee productivity at Maragheh University.
Methods: This study employed a descriptive-analytical design. The statistical population included administrative employees of Maragheh University in 2024. A total of 150 people were selected as a sample from the population above according to the Morgan table and the stratified random sampling method. Data were collected using the Sprecher et al. questionnaire to assess MSDs and an organizational productivity questionnaire. The obtained data were then analyzed using Pearson's correlation and multiple regression in SPSS software (version 25).
Results: The findings revealed a significant negative relationship between musculoskeletal health and productivity (r = -0.47), indicating that increased musculoskeletal problems were associated with decreased efficiency (r = -0.41), task quality (r = -0.39), goal commitment (r = -0.45), and time management (r = -0.36). Multivariate regression analysis demonstrated that digital workplace design and the use of smart tools were significantly associated with reduced musculoskeletal problems (β = -0.52, P < 0.05) and increased employee productivity (β = 0.46, P < 0.05).
Conclusion: The results indicate that ergonomic workplace design combined with smart tools reduces musculoskeletal discomfort and enhances employee productivity. These findings emphasize the importance of ergonomic workplaces and smart tools in promoting both employee health and performance.
Nabi Omidi, Hasan Ghanbarzadeh, Mohsen Emami, Mohammadreza Omidi,
Volume 13, Issue 4 (1-2026)
Abstract
Objectives: With the increasing expansion of digital banking, cyber threats have become a significant financial and operational risk. This study aimed to develop a model grounded in macro-ergonomic principles to enhance cybersecurity resilience and reduce financial risk in the digital banking industry.
Methods: This study used a mixed-methods approach. In the qualitative phase, 15 experts were interviewed, and the data were examined using thematic analysis. In the quantitative phase, the resulting conceptual model was tested using a researcher-developed questionnaire administered to 387 bank employees. Data analysis and final model evaluation were performed using structural equation modeling (SEM) in LISREL software.
Results: The qualitative analysis identified five main themes and 32 sub-themes that formed the dimensions of the model: technical-instrumental subsystem, human-psychological, organizational-structural, environmental-supervisory factors, and cybersecurity resilience (consequence). The results of the quantitative model test showed that the model had a good fit (minimum discrepancy function by degrees of freedom divided [CMIN/DF] = 2.41, goodness of fit index [GFI] = 0.92, comparative fit index [CFI] = 0.94, root mean square error of approximation [RMSEA] = 0.061, standardized root mean square [SRMR] = 0.057). All four macro-ergonomic dimensions had a positive and significant effect on cybersecurity resilience. Among them, the "organizational-structural subsystem" with a standardized path coefficient of 0.48 had the most critical impact and was identified as the strongest predictor.
Conclusion: The sociotechnical model based on macroergonomics provides an efficient framework for analyzing and strengthening cybersecurity resilience in digital banking, thereby helping reduce financial risks. This result emphasizes the need to transition from purely technical approaches to a systemic, interactive approach among humans, technology, and organizational structures.
Shafe Abbasi, Roghaye Lotfi Esfahanjegh, Farideh Babakhani,
Volume 13, Issue 4 (1-2026)
Abstract
Objectives: Barefoot shoes are recognized as a product for managing musculoskeletal disorders, and prolonged use of inappropriate shoes can have negative health consequences. Despite the growing use of these shoes in Iran, there is limited evidence regarding the associated clinical and practical challenges. Examining the experiences of vendors can help identify barriers to the supply and use of this product, providing practical data to improve prescription practices, consumer education, and the quality of clinical care.
Methods: This qualitative, ergonomics-focused study examined the challenges and opportunities of using barefoot shoes in Iran from the vendors' perspective. Data were collected using a modified Anderson questionnaire, validated by three orthotics and prosthetics specialists, and completed by ten vendors. The thematic analysis of the data highlighted the needs and challenges related to barefoot shoes in the Iranian market.
Results: Athletes, individuals with normal weight, and those with forefoot deformities reported the highest satisfaction with barefoot shoes, whereas individuals with conditions, such as severe flat feet or back pain without custom insoles, faced challenges. Additionally, foot scanning and the design of personalized insoles play a crucial role in improving comfort and reducing foot pain.
Conclusion: Barefoot shoes can improve the function of foot muscles when designed and used ergonomically. However, individuals with back pain, high arches, heel spurs, corns, or various types of blisters should use them with caution because improper use may exacerbate pain and worsen clinical symptoms.
Nedasadat Jafari, Nabi Omidi, Mohammad Saraei Talab, Mohammadreza Kermani, Elham Khosravi,
Volume 13, Issue 4 (1-2026)
Abstract
Objectives: This research aimed to design and validate an integrated model for soft skills development, integrating technology-driven empowerment with cognitive ergonomics principles.
Methods: This study employed a mixed-methods approach with a sequential exploratory design. In the qualitative phase, in-depth interviews were conducted with 18 academic experts and senior bank managers selected through purposive sampling, and the data were analyzed using thematic analysis. In the quantitative phase, which employed a descriptive-survey design, the conceptual model derived from the qualitative phase was tested using a researcher-developed questionnaire on a sample of 395 employees from the headquarters and branches of Bank Refah Kargaran. Data analysis and model evaluation were performed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) in AMOS (version 26).
Results: The qualitative analysis led to the identification of four main themes and twenty‑eight sub‑themes, forming the model's dimensions: technology-based empowerment, cognitive ergonomics considerations, contextual and organizational factors, and integrated soft skills development. The quantitative results indicated a good model fit, with all three predictors exerting positive and significant effects on soft skills development. Among them, contextual and organizational factors had the most substantial impact (β = 0.45).
Conclusion: These findings highlight the necessity of adopting a systemic perspective that recognizes the interplay among humans, technology, and organizational structures. They demonstrate that successful employee empowerment requires simultaneous attention to technological tools and cognitive ergonomics principles.
Mehdi Beyramijam, Mohammad Sadegh Sohrabi, Mohammad Babamiri, Arezo Farhadi,
Volume 13, Issue 4 (1-2026)
Abstract
Abstract
In today's world, research management systems in universities and research centers are recognized as essential tools for facilitating research processes. One of the key aspects of the success of these systems is their usability, which, if weak, can lead to reduced productivity, increased time spent by users, and decreased user satisfaction. Users of research management systems at universities often encounter issues, such as complex menus, a lack of clarity in search and reporting processes, and insufficient training. In this context, proposed policies for improving process design, feedback and reporting systems, structured training, continuous support, and ongoing user experience evaluation are presented to enhance system efficiency and user satisfaction. These recommendations can also be applied to other research and education management systems in universities and research centers. Therefore, focusing on usability and continuous system improvement can lead to increased efficiency and user satisfaction in these environments.
Zahra Toosi, Yadollah Hamidi, Mahdi Beglari, Ali Reza Soltanian,
Volume 14, Issue 1 (3-2026)
Abstract
Objectives: One of the most important elements and duties of management is to create the necessary environment for fostering creativity to bring about organizational transformation. Participatory ergonomics, as a systematic approach emphasizing the active involvement of employees in designing and improving work systems, can provide a foundation for simultaneously enhancing both participation and creativity. Given the importance of governance roles in universities and the potential impact of management and ergonomic studies in this field, this study aimed to assess the level of employee creativity and its relationship with their participation in the university.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in strategic and oversight units directly affiliated with the university presidency with standard questionnaires, including "Belcher’s Partnership" and "Randsip's Creativity", take census from 63 emploees. Data were analyzed using SPSS20 software, and correlations were determined using the Pearson correlation and regression and variance analysis coefficient with a significance level of less than 0.05.
Results: The average creativity score of staff was 180.41, and the participation rate was 113.83, both representing more than 75% of the total score. The results did not indicate a direct relation between employee creativity and their participation (p = 0.206). There was a difference in creativity between men and women, with women showing higher average creativity scores than men. Employee participation and creativity levels are significantly influenced by the nature of their work.
Conclusion: The level of employee participation and creativity is significantly influenced by the nature of their work. Creating a conducive environment to enhance participation and creativity, especially in governance roles where legal constraints may exist, is essential. Participatory ergonomics, by providing a structured framework for engaging employees in problem‑solving and improving work processes, can help overcome some barriers and strengthen creative potential. Furthermore, leveraging the presence of women in supervisory units can enhance creativity in positions that require innovative thinking.
Abbas Mohammadi, Leila Aghaei, Marzieh Sadeghian, Mohammad Sadegh Loeloe,
Volume 14, Issue 1 (3-2026)
Abstract
Objectives: Office staff in health networks are exposed to adverse psychosocial factors and work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) associated with improper working posture, which may reduce productivity. The present study aimed to examine the relationships between psychosocial factors and WMSDs with productivity among administrative staff of a health network and to evaluate the effectiveness of an educational–ergonomic intervention on these outcomes.
Methods: This quasi-experimental pretest–posttest study was conducted among 150 employees of the Behbahan health network in Iran. Data were collected using the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (COPSOQ III), the Hersey and Goldsmith ACHIEVE productivity questionnaire, and the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ). Working posture was assessed using the Rapid Office Strain Assessment (ROSA) checklist in a random subsample (n=15). A three-month educational–ergonomic intervention was delivered in small groups. Data were analyzed using SPSS (version 26), and statistical significance was set at 0.05.
Results: Overall psychosocial score was positively correlated with total productivity (r=0.633, p<0.01). The WMSDs demonstrated significant negative correlations with selected productivity dimensions (p<0.05). After the intervention, psychosocial dimensions and overall productivity improved significantly (p<0.001), with a marked increase in total productivity (2.82 to 4.03; Cohen’s d=1.51). The WMSDs decreased significantly (5.36 to 4.24; p<0.001). Moreover, no significant change was observed in the ROSA score (p=0.640).
Conclusion: The educational–ergonomic intervention improved workplace psychosocial conditions and reduced musculoskeletal complaints, thereby increasing productivity among administrative staff in the health network. In addition, it is recommended to conduct controlled studies.
Maryam Shokri, Jafar Nasir Nateri,
Volume 14, Issue 1 (3-2026)
Abstract
Objectives: With the rapid expansion of smart city initiatives, municipal employees' productivity challenges have become a critical, organizational, and service delivery issue. This study aimed to design an integrated model of transformational leadership, smart city technologies, and organizational ergonomics to enhance the efficiency and performance of municipal employees in smart cities.
Methods: This mixed-methods study consisted of qualitative and quantitative phases. In the qualitative phase, in-depth interviews were conducted with 18 elite experts and senior managers, and data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke's six-phase thematic analysis (256 initial codes, 41 sub-themes, 4 main themes). In the quantitative phase, the conceptual model was tested through a researcher-developed questionnaire administered to 238 employees from Tehran Municipality District 8 (96.36% response rate). Data analysis was performed using PLS-SEM in Smart PLS 4 software with 5000 bootstrap subsamples.
Results: Qualitative analysis identified 4 main themes, namely transformational leadership, smart city technologies, organizational ergonomics, and employee efficiency/performance. Quantitative results demonstrated excellent model fit (R²=0.78, Q²=0.56, SRMR=0.051, NFI=0.95). All three dimensions had significant positive effects on efficiency. Moreover, transformational leadership exhibited the strongest effect with a path coefficient of 0.46 (t=8.47, f²=0.42), identified as the primary predictor.
Conclusion: The integrated model of transformational leadership, smart city technologies, and organizational ergonomics provides an effective framework for analyzing and enhancing municipal employees' efficiency in smart cities. This approach is expected to improve service efficiency and citizen satisfaction. The findings underscore the need to shift from purely technology-driven approaches to a systemic, human-centered perspective integrating leadership, technology, and job design.
Ayoub Ghanbary Sartang, Negar Safarpour Khotbesara, Zahra Rahimi, Mahbobeh Abedi, Hojatollah Hossainian, Mohsen Poursadeghiyan,
Volume 14, Issue 1 (3-2026)
Abstract
Objectives: Improper waste management, as one of the main factors in environmental degradation, requires new approaches such as zero waste, green ergonomics, and Ergoecology, as well as substitution chemists' attempts and investigations related to their chemical waste and pollutant products. This study, based on the DIN 91436 standard framework, examines the role of new approaches in realizing sustainable waste management systems and reducing negative environmental impacts.
Methods: This review study was conducted through a systematic search of international (PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science) and Persian databases (SID, Magiran, IranMedex, and IranDoc) for articles published from 1990 to 2025. The search strategy included a combination of keywords, and articles were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria; the extracted data were then categorized and clarified through thematic analysis.
Results: According to studies, green ergonomics is effective through sustainable product and process design, reducing waste at source, and increasing recycling, and aligns with the prevention stage within the framework of the DIN 91436 standard. Moreover, by analyzing human-environment interactions, Ergoecology provides a systematic framework for achieving zero waste with an emphasis on the technical, social, and environmental dimensions. By combining these two approaches within the framework of the aforementioned standard, an effective path towards a circular economy and sustainable waste management is mapped out, while chemists' investigations often focus on materials or methods that can be degraded and damage the environment overall, which is in contrast with zero waste.
Conclusion: A variety of experimental sciences, research, and technologies ultimately cause various environmental damages, as some of them are discussed in this study. Achieving zero waste requires the integration of the three main pillars of green ergonomics, ergo-ecology, and the implementation framework of the DIN 91436 standard. This integration not only reduces waste and conserves resources but also promotes human health and environmental sustainability. To institutionalize this approach, it is necessary to expand interdisciplinary research, incorporate its principles into policymaking, and invest in education and culture among all stakeholders.
Fatemeh Hajialikhani, Fatemeh Shahbazi, Neda Mahdavi,
Volume 14, Issue 2 (6-2026)
Abstract
Objectives: Handicraft artists in Isfahan Province are at heightened risk of developing upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders due to the nature of their work, which involves repetitive movements and awkward postures. This study examined how hand tool characteristics affect upper extremity musculoskeletal discomfort among these artisans.
Methods: In this cross-sectional analytical study, 191 artisans (70 women and 121 men) working in enameling, turquoise inlaying, miniature painting, and metal engraving were selected through random sampling. Data were collected using demographic questionnaires, the Quick version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (Quick-DASH) questionnaire, and the Comfort QH (CQH) tool. Statistical analyses were conducted using Stata (version 17), and a significance level of less than 0.05 was considered for all statistical tests.
Results: The mean and standard deviation of the Quick-DASH score were 28.89 and 4.91, respectively. The highest Quick-DASH score was observed among the engravers, with a mean of 30.89 and a standard deviation of 2.91. Work experience significantly influenced the Quick-DASH score (P = 0.003). The mean CQH questionnaire score for artists was 1.09, with a standard deviation of 0.26. Turquoise inlay workers and engravers reported discomfort with the tools, with a mean (standard deviation) of 1.04 (0.23). No significant correlation was observed between upper limb disability and tool comfort.
Conclusion: The handicraft artists of Isfahan, who routinely perform highly repetitive and fine manual tasks, are at considerable risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders. Although no statistically significant association was found between musculoskeletal disability and discomfort related to hand tools, both univariate and multivariate analyses highlighted the substantial impact of hand tool comfort on upper extremity musculoskeletal discomfort.
Seyedeh Sahar Mirnabizadeh, Cyrus Alinia, Abolfazl Ghahramani,
Volume 14, Issue 2 (6-2026)
Abstract
Objectives: : Inappropriate workplace design and neglect of ergonomics and safety reduce productivity and increase organizational costs. This study aimed to investigate the relationship among safety climate, ergonomic climate, individual performance, and the approximate PALY index.
Methods: This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted in 2025 among 420 employees from six food companies in Urmia, Iran. Data were collected using validated questionnaires assessing safety climate, ergonomic climate, and individual work performance, and a productivity evaluation form was employed to calculate the approximate PALY index. Data were analyzed using Mann-Whitney U, Kruskal-Wallis, Spearman's correlation, and linear regression.
Results: A strong positive correlation was found between safety climate and ergonomic climate (ρ = 0.84, p < 0.01). Safety climate showed a weak positive correlation with individual performance (ρ = 0.12, p = 0.01). Multiple linear regression revealed that ergonomic climate (β = 0.28, p < 0.001) and company of employment (β = -0.31, p < 0.001) were significant predictors of individual performance. In contrast, work experience (β = 0.87, p < 0.001) and company of employment (β = -0.08, p < 0.001) were significant predictors of the approximate PALY index.
Conclusion: The strong correlation between safety and ergonomic climate highlights their synergy. Ergonomic climate (not safety climate) is an independent predictor of individual performance, whereas work experience is the strongest predictor of the approximate PALY index. The lack of association between self-rated performance and the approximate PALY index reveals a deep perceptual gap between employee self-assessment and managerial evaluation.
Farzin Tahmasbi Pour, Nabi Omidi,
Volume 14, Issue 2 (6-2026)
Abstract
Objectives: Digital agility has become a critical capability for modern organizations and requires effective interaction between humans and emerging information technologies. Despite substantial investments in advanced digital technologies, insufficient attention to cognitive and human factors may undermine the effectiveness of digital transformation initiatives. This study aimed to develop a structural model of human cognitive interaction with emerging information technologies to enhance organizational digital agility from a human factors engineering perspective.
Methods: A mixed-methods approach with an exploratory sequential design was employed. In the qualitative phase, 16 experts in human factors engineering, cognitive science, information technology, and digital transformation were selected through purposive sampling and participated in semi-structured interviews. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis. In the quantitative phase, the conceptual model was tested using a researcher-developed questionnaire administered to a sample of 378 participants, including managers and employees of Digikala Company. The data were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) in LISREL software (version 8.8).
Results: The qualitative findings identified 5 main themes and 26 sub-themes. The quantitative results indicated that the proposed model demonstrated satisfactory fit indices (χ²/df=2.36, GFI=0.92, CFI=0.95, RMSEA=0.060, and SRMR=0.055). All dimensions of the model had positive and significant effects on organizational digital agility. Among them, organizational enablers had the strongest effect (β=0.46).
Conclusion: The findings revealed that digital agility emerges from integrating users’ cognitive capabilities, advanced information technologies, human factors, and organizational infrastructures. The proposed model offers a practical framework for enhancing digital agility and improving the success of digital transformation initiatives in organizations.
Maryam Afshari, Vajihe Ramazani-Doroh, Elham Najafi, Roghayyeh Hasanzadeh,
Volume 14, Issue 3 (10-2026)
Abstract
Background and objectives: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are among the most common occupational health problems among teachers. Ergonomic interventions can play an important role in preventing and reducing these disorders; however, successful implementation of such interventions requires understanding employees’ acceptance and willingness to contribute financially. This study aimed to assess teachers’ willingness to pay (WTP) for ergonomic interventions and identify factors associated with it.
Method: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 361 teachers. Data on demographic, socioeconomic, occupational, psychosocial, and musculoskeletal health characteristics were collected using a structured questionnaire. Willingness to pay for ergonomic interventions was assessed using the contingent valuation method (CVM). Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with WTP.
Results: Overall, 186 participants (51.5%) reported willingness to pay for ergonomic interventions. The mean WTP was 193,490 Iranian Tomans, while the median WTP was 50,000 Tomans. Bivariate analyses showed significant associations between WTP and adequate rest, sleep disorders, workplace violence, overall support, and supervisor support (P < 0.05). In the multivariable logistic regression model, managerial support was associated with more than a twofold increase in the likelihood of WTP (OR = 2.32, 95% CI: 1.41–3.82). Poor working posture (OR = 1.81, P = 0.021) and employment status (OR = 2.17, P = 0.039) were also positively associated with WTP, whereas workplace violence was negatively associated with WTP (OR = 0.57, P = 0.028). Musculoskeletal pain and activity limitation during the previous 12 months were not significantly associated with WTP.
Conclusion: Teachers’ willingness to pay for ergonomic interventions was influenced more by organizational and workplace-related factors than by individual characteristics or musculoskeletal health conditions. Strengthening managerial support and improving workplace conditions may enhance employees’ acceptance of and participation in ergonomic intervention programs.
Rasoul Hemmatjo, Hajar Ebadi Garjan,
Volume 14, Issue 3 (10-2026)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Advances in technology have led to widespread use of visual display terminals across occupations, resulting in prolonged exposure. Scientific studies show lighting significantly influences human attention by affecting consciousness levels. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between indoor illuminance, luminance and sustained attention among administrative staff in healthcare centers in Ardabil.
Methods: This descriptive study was conducted among 98 administrative staff in healthcare centers. Illuminance levels (at the work surface and user’s eye level) and luminance (at the user’s eye level from the screen and light source) were measured at workstations using a Hagner Universal photometer model S4. Sustained attention was assessed using the Continuous Performance Test (CPT) under workplace lighting conditions. Data were analyzed with SPSS version 27 using non-parametric statistical tests and Dunn’s post-hoc test.
Results: Results revealed a positive but non-significant correlation between sustained attention and work surface illuminance (p=0.123), luminance at the user's eye level from lighting sources (p=0.335) and from the screen (p=0.7). A positive and statistically significant relationship was observed between illuminance at the user's eye level and sustained attention (p=0.029). Dunn’s post-hoc test indicated this relationship was significant between lighting levels below 100 lx and 300 to 500 lx (p<0.05). Higher levels of lighting parameters were associated with shorter reaction times in the sustained attention test, although these associations did not reach statistical significance (p>0.05).
Conclusion: According to the results, illuminance at the user's eye level has a positive and statistically significant relationship with sustained attention among administrative staff. Therefore, implementing lighting interventions in the design and arrangement of lighting sources, along with use of visual display terminals with appropriate luminance, can be considered an effective strategy to enhance sustained attention in administrative personnel.
Shiva Adib, Azade Tahernejad, Fateme Shahrebabaky, Somaye Tahernejad,
Volume 14, Issue 3 (10-2026)
Abstract
Background and Objective: Firefighting gloves are essential personal protective equipment (PPE); however, protection alone does not ensure their effectiveness. Ergonomic characteristics, including hand fit, preservation of manual dexterity and tactile sensitivity, comfort, and ease of use, can influence firefighters’ performance and safety. This study aimed to identify the ergonomic components of firefighting gloves from the users’ perspective.
Methods: This qualitative study employed conventional content analysis with an inductive approach and was conducted from February to May 2026. Twenty active-duty firefighters were purposively recruited, five of whom had additional expertise and experience in occupational safety and personal protective equipment. Sampling continued until data saturation was reached. Data were collected through 20 semi-structured interviews and 2 focus group discussions and were subsequently transcribed, coded, and analyzed. The Lincoln and Guba criteria were applied to ensure the trustworthiness of the findings.
Results: Of 839 initial codes, 394 final codes were derived and organized into five main categories and 10 subcategories: biomechanical and musculoskeletal strain, anthropometric and dimensional fit factors, physiological factors, manual and perceptual performance, and usability and compatibility. Key components included increased grip force and localized pressure, poor dimensional fit, restricted joint mobility, heat retention and sweating, skin irritation, reduced tactile sensitivity and dexterity, difficulty in donning and doffing, and incompatibility with other protective equipment.
Conclusion: The ergonomics of firefighting gloves is a multidimensional concept encompassing biomechanical, anthropometric, physiological, manual-performance, and usability dimensions. These findings may provide a basis for developing and validating objective ergonomic indicators and for considering their incorporation into future standards. Further studies using objective measurements and including female firefighters are recommended to validate the identified components.
Hamed Salmanzadeh, Arash Mirhaji Moghanjoughi,
Volume 14, Issue 3 (10-2026)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Low back musculoskeletal disorders are among the major concerns in the construction industry and are primarily caused by biomechanical loads imposed on the lower back. Previous studies on task allocation have mainly focused on reducing maximum physical risk and, in some cases, psychological risk, while ergonomic indices have predominantly been assessed using qualitative or semi-quantitative methods. However, fairness in the distribution of risk and working time among workers has received less attention. Therefore, this study was conducted to develop a model for reducing risk and ensuring its equitable distribution, as well as the equitable distribution of working time. From a macroergonomic perspective, such a model can enhance personnel motivation and prevent tensions arising from perceived inequality in the workplace.
Methods: This cross-sectional study employed a mathematical modeling approach. Postural and force exertion data were collected from four construction workers performing nine distinct tasks. Compressive forces on the lumbar region were determined using 3DSSPP software. Subsequently, the quantitative risk associated with force intensity and exposure duration was computed using the Mainz-Dortmund Dosis Model (MDD), following which a mathematical model was formulated to facilitate the fair assignment of tasks.
Results: Implementation of the developed mixed-integer quadratic programming model revealed that, under divisible task allocation, the cumulative low-back risk and static exposure time per worker were 5,138 newton-hours(Nh) ( below the permissible threshold of 5,500) and 1.575 hours, respectively. Furthermore, the objective function's proximity to zero substantiates the equitable distribution of both risk and working time.
Conclusion: While maintaining operational constraints, the proposed model improves ergonomic equity and can be used as a decision-making tool to protect workers’ lumbar region
