Touch-typing VDU operation: workstation adjustment, working posture and workers' perceptions

Area of Science:

• Ergonomics
• Occupational Health
• Human-Computer Interaction

Background:

• Musculoskeletal disorders are common among visual display unit (VDU) operators.
• Optimizing workstation ergonomics is crucial for preventing operator strain.
• Previous research has not definitively established optimal visual target angles independent of posture.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the ideal gaze inclination for minimizing musculoskeletal load in touch-typing VDU operators.
• To assess the impact of visual target height and chair backrest inclination on operator well-being and performance.
• To establish ergonomic guidelines for VDU workstations.

Main Methods:

• Professional touch-typing operators were studied at a VDU workstation.
• Eight combined adjustments of visual target height and chair backrest inclination were tested.
• Measurements included working posture, operator perceptions, and work performance.

Main Results:

• A gaze inclination of 6-9 degrees below the horizontal to the visual target (screen, document) was found to minimize musculoskeletal load.
• This optimal gaze inclination range was effective across various sitting postures, with backrest inclination from upright to 15 degrees backward.
• Operator perceptions and work performance were also considered in the analysis.

Conclusions:

• For touch-typing VDU operators, a gaze inclination of 6-9 degrees below the horizontal is recommended to reduce musculoskeletal system load.
• The recommended gaze inclination is independent of sitting posture, offering flexibility in workstation setup.
• These findings provide evidence-based ergonomic guidelines for VDU workstation design and operator training.