The development of the Quick Exposure Check (QEC) for assessing exposure to risk factors for work-related musculoskeletal disorders.

This paper describes the development and evaluation of the Quick Exposure Check (QEC), which is an observational tool developed for Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) practitioners to assess exposure to risks for work-related musculoskeletal disorders and provide a basis for ergonomic interventions. The tool is based on epidemiological evidence and investigations of OSH practitioners' aptitudes for undertaking assessments. It has been tested, modified and validated using simulated and workplace tasks, in two phases of development, with participation of 206 practitioners.

Psychological barriers to Internet usage among older adults in the UK.

The Internet is an important tool in assisting the older population to lead independent and social lives. However, the majority of Internet users are under 55. This study investigated the following psychological barriers to Internet use by older adults: perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, Internet efficacy, perceived complexity of navigation and perceived complexity of terminology.

Work-related musculoskeletal health and social support.

Background: This review concerns the relationship between inequalities experienced at work with respect to social support (e.g. poor communication channels, unsatisfactory work relationships, unsupportive organizational culture) and work-related musculoskeletal ill-health.

Musculoskeletal disorders and visual strain in intensive data processing workers.

Background: This study was conducted for a UK Trade Union in response to increasing numbers of health complaints among intensive computer workers in a data processing environment.

Aim: To estimate prevalence of musculoskeletal pain/discomfort and visual strain symptoms among data processing workers and to explore associations with work factors.

Methods: A self-report questionnaire was distributed to data processors (n = 175) and a control group (n = 129) in the same organization.

Development of non-keyboard input device checklists through assessments.

An assessment of non-keyboard input devices (NKID) was conducted to identify factors for good design in relation to operation, performance and comfort. Twenty-seven NKID users, working in health and safety, evaluated eight devices that included mice, trackballs and a joystick mouse. The factors considered important for good design were: (1) comfortable hand and finger position, (2) adequate control, (3) intuitive and easy to use, (4) ease of device, button and trackball movement, (5) good interaction with software, (6) provision of suitable accessories.