Document Type : Original Article(s)
Authors
1 Lecturer, Medical Library and Information Sciences, Health Information Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
2 Student, Medical Library and Information Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
3 Assistant Professor, Epidemiology, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
4 PhD Student, Health Information Management, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran and Member of Medical Education Research Center of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
Abstract
Introduction: Ergonomics is the science of improvement of the work environment, job and equipment and adapting them to the human capabilities and limitations. Observing ergonomic principles of computer application is essential for the computer users. Lack of attention to these principles would decrease efficiency and cause irreparable somatic complications. The present study assesses the knowledge of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences Librarians about ergonomics principles of computer application.Methods: This is a cross-sectional analytic study. The study population was all the librarians who worked in Isfahan University of Medical Sciences at the time of the study. The data was gathered using a knowledge measurement researcher- made questionnaire, consisting of 28 questions which its content validity were checked and revised. The data were analyzed by T-test and ANOVA using SPSS software version 15.Results: Mean score of correct answers to the questions was reported as 5.65 ± 4.45 of 18. There was no significant relationship between the total questionnaire score and the variables sex, educational level, type of education, employment status, educational Course for the proper use of the computer and the number of hours of computer use per day however there was significant relationship between total score and the study for the proper use of computer.Conclusion: The findings indicated that the knowledge of the Isfahan University of Medical Sciences librarians about ergonomic principles of computer application was low. This can be due to disregard of authorities, librarians or both of them that it can be harmful to their health and the University should also pay the heavy cost of reduced staff productivity. Therefore, it is recommended that the responsible organizations promote the librarians' knowledge about ergonomic principles of computer application through training courses, conferences, consized brochures. It is also recommended that librarians expand their studies on this topic.Keywords: Human Engineering; Occupational Health; Awareness; Librarians; Universities.
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