Physical work environment in an activity-based flex office: a longitudinal case study
Viktoria Wahlström1,2, Maria Öhrn3, Mette Harder4
1Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden. viktoria.wahlstrom@umu.se.
Summary
Relocating to activity-based flex offices (AFOs) requires careful planning for Occupational Health and Safety (OHS). Poor ergonomics and unclear OHS management led to increased musculoskeletal symptoms in office workers.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health and Safety
- Ergonomics
- Human Factors in the Workplace
Background:
- Activity-based flex offices (AFOs) are increasingly adopted, impacting employee well-being.
- Limited research exists on the long-term effects of AFOs on OHS and ergonomics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) management and office ergonomics.
- To explore musculoskeletal symptoms in office workers transitioning to AFOs.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative interviews with 77 employees.
- Longitudinal questionnaire data from 152 employees.
Main Results:
- Need for clarified OHS roles and processes identified.
- Deterioration in self-rated comfort, posture, and daylight availability.
- Increased neck and shoulder symptoms influenced by workstation adjustment, workplace availability, and individual factors.
Conclusions:
- Emphasizes the importance of proactive OHS management during AFO implementation.
- Highlights the need for careful implementation of office ergonomics in AFO environments.
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