A replicated field intervention study evaluating the impact of a highly adjustable chair and office ergonomics training on visual symptoms

ObjectiveExamine the effects of two office ergonomics interventions in reducing visual symptoms at a private sector worksite.MethodsA quasi-experimental study design evaluated the effects of a highly adjustable chair with office ergonomics training intervention (CWT group) and the training only (TO group) compared with no intervention (CO group). Data collection occurred 2 and 1 month(s) pre-intervention and 2, 6 and 12 months post-intervention. During each data collection period, a work environment and health questionnaire (covariates) and daily health diary (outcomes) were completed. Multilevel statistical models tested hypotheses.ResultsBoth the training only intervention (p < 0.001) and the chair with training intervention (p = 0.01) reduced visual symptoms after 12 months.ConclusionThe office ergonomics training alone and coupled with a highly adjustable chair reduced visual symptoms. In replicating results from a public sector worksite at a private sector worksite the external validity of the interventions is strengthened, thus broadening its generalizability.

► A replicated study evaluated office ergonomics intervention on visual symptoms. ► The highly adjustable chair with office ergonomics training reduced visual symptoms. ► The office ergonomics training alone reduced visual symptoms. ► Both interventions resulted in reduced visual symptoms at 12 months. ► This replicated study strengthened the intervention’s external validity.