A Study on the Ergonomic Practice among Office Workers

in Bromma Malaysia

By

Murugeswaran Kootha Perumal

Project Paper Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements

for the Degree of Master of Business Administration
Universiti Tun Abdul Razak

June 2021
 DECLARATION

The author hereby declares that this project paper is the original study undertaken

by his unless stated otherwise due to acknowledgment has been given to references

quoted in the bibliography. The views and analyses in this study are that of author’s

based on the reference made; and this does not constitute an individual to use this

study as technical tool for investment.

Signature :

Name : Murugeswaran Kootha Perumal

Date :

ii
 ACKNOWLEDGMENT

Firstly, I would like to express my utmost gratitude and highest appreciation to

my respectful supervisor Prof. Dr. Farhana Tahmida Newaz for her personalized

guidance and encouragement throughout this research journey. I am very grateful for

her passion, tolerance, understanding and continuous guidance to provide valuable

feedback to my research thesis with great input for improvement. Besides that, I would

like to give my special thanks to all the professors who expended their precious time

and support all via the MBA program and also for giving me this golden opportunity to

finish this study on the title A Study on the Ergonomic Practice among Office Workers

in Bromma Malaysia.

Further, I’m delighted to appreciate the full support given from all my Bromma

Malaysia work mates who accompany me with supportive encouragement without

hesitation to understand the up and down along the process of completion of this

paper, especially in the distribution of the questionnaire for this research. Finally, I

also would like to express my gratitude to all my beloved family members’ especially

my wife Dr. Kalaimathi MD, colleagues, and friends who had given the undivided

support physically and mentally throughout this fantastic research journey.

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

DECLARATION…………………………………………………………………..……. ii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT…………………………………………………………..…… iii
LIST OF TABLES……………………………………………………………………….. vi
LIST OF FIGURES………………………………………………………………..……. vii
ABSTRACT………………………………………………………………………….…… viii

CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Introduction………………………………………………………………………. 1
1.2 Company background……………………………………………………...….. 2
1.3 Background of the study…………………………………………………..……. 3
1.4 Problem statement…………………………………………………………….... 6
1.5 Research objectives………………………………………………………..…… 7
1.6 Research questions…………………………………………………………….. 7
1.7 Theoretical Framework………………………………………………….……… 8
1.8 Significance of the study…………………………………………………..…… 8
1.9 The Organization of the study……………………………………………….…. 10

CHAPTER 2 LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Introduction…………………………………………………………..………….. 11
2.2 Ergonomics Issue of the office seating at work……………………………… 11
2.3 Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSD) for Office Seating ………….……………. 13
2.4 Chair Adjustments………………………………………………………………. 14
2.5 Seat comfort……………………………………………………………………… 15
2.6 Reliability…………………………………………………………………………. 17
2.7 Theoretical Foundation………………………………………………….……… 17
2.8 Empirical Research……………………………………………………….…….. 20
2.9 Proposed frequency frame work………………………………………………. 22

CHAPTER 3 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3.1 Introduction……………………………………………………………………… 23
3.2 Research design……………………………………………………..………… 23
3.3 Study Population and Sampling Procedures …………………..……………. 23
3.3.1 Population………………………………………………..…………….. 24
3.4 Data Collection Method…………………………………………..……………. 24
3.5 Data Analysis Method …………………………………………...……………… 25
3.6 Descriptive Analysis Techniques………………………………….…………… 25
3.7 Inferential Analysis Techniques……………………………………..………… 26
3.7.1 Two Independent Samples T – Test…………………………..…….. 26
3.7.2 Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) Test………………………….………. 26
3.7.3 Pearson Correlation Analysis …………………………………………. 27
3.7.4 Linear Regression Analysis…………………………………..………. 27
3.8 Summary of Chapter 3……………………………………………………..….. 28

CHAPTER 4 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

4.1 Chapter Overview………………………………………………………………. 29
4.2 Measurement Instrument………………………………………………..…….. 29
4.2.1 Pilot Test………………………………………………………………….29
4.3 Descriptive Analysis…………………………………………………………….. 30
4.4 Discussion on Descriptive Analysis…………………………………...….…… 47
4.4.1 Section Demographic ………………………………………………….. 47

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4.5 Inferential Statistics Analysis……………………………………………..……. 50
4.5.1 Two Independent Samples T – Test……………………………….… 50
4.5.2 Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) Test…………………………..…….... 51
4.5.3 Pearson Correlation Analysis …………………………………………. 51
4.5.4 Linear Regression Analysis……………………………………..…….. 52

CHAPTER 5 CONCLUSIONS
5.1 Recap of Major Findings…………………………………………………….….. 55
5.2 Implications of the Study………………………………………………….……. 56
5.3 Limitations of the Study…………………………………………………..…….. 57
5.4 Recommendations for Future Research……………………………….…….. 57

REFERENCES…………………………………………………………………………… 58
APPENDICES ………………………………………………………………………...….. 60

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 LIST OF TABLES

Table 3.1 Interpretation of Pearson Correlation Coefficient…………….…….. 27

Table 4.3 Correlation Result between OHS Training and Knowledge
About Ergonomics of Work at an Office Workstation………………. 52
Table 4.4 R and R Square Value……………………………………….………… 53
Table 4.5 Coefficients……………………………………………………………… 53

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 LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1 Occupational Accidents Statistics by Years……………….………… 2

Figure 1.1 Trend of Reported Musculoskeletal Disorders…………...…………..4
Figure 1.2 Trend of recorded musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) relative to
occupational diseases (OD) cases and compensation reported
for permanent disability from 2009 – 2014…………..……………… 5
Figure 2.1 The Ergonomic Computer Workstation………………….…………… 12
Figure 2.2 Comparison of Regions Involved with Work Related
Musculoskeletal Symptoms between Male and Female Dentist…... 14
Figure 2.3 Major Dimension of the Seat………………………………………….. 15
Figure 2.4 The Example Comfort Sitting in the Office Chair……………………. 16
Figure 4.0 Demographic Analysis……………………………….………………… 47
Figure 4.1 Percentage Table of Highest Population…………………………….. 48
Figure 4.2 Summary of Employee’s Overview on Training Necessity…..……. 49

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Abstract of the project paper submitted to the Senate of Universiti Tun Abdul Razak
in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Master of Business Administration.

A Study on the Ergonomic Practice among Office Workers

in Bromma Malaysia

By

Murugeswaran Kootha Perumal

June 2021

Ergonomics has gained attention and take into consideration by the workers in the
different fields of works recently. It has given a huge impact on the workers comfort,
which directly affects the work efficiency and productivity. The workers have claimed
to suffer from the painful postures and injuries in their workplace. A musculoskeletal
disorder (MSDs) is the most common problem frequently reported by the workers.
This problem occurs due to the lack of knowledge and alertness from the workers to
the ergonomic in their surroundings. This paper intends to review the understanding
or the awareness of the workers in all fields. I would like to cover as much as work
environment that involves workers awareness. We will evaluate whether trainings
required for the workers regarding the ergonomics to assure that they are aware and
able to follow the guidelines to prevent health injuries in the future.

viii
 CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Introduction

Ergonomics is the study of the relationship between the workers and the
working environment. It is vital for the workers to concern and realizes the potential
ergonomics risk factors around their workplace as the consequences are fatal like
death and disability. The examples of the potential ergonomics risk factors include
repetitive motion, static posture, heavy lifting, forceful exertion, expose to excessive
vibration etc. The lack of alertness by the workers on the existence of the potential
ergonomics risk factors at their surroundings might endanger their safety and health.

In Malaysia, Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) is

established to protect the safety, health, and welfare of the person in the workplace
from any occupational hazard. Investigation on the occupational accidents by sectors
has been done by DOSH annually for data analysis. Figure 1 has summarized the
findings of DOSH from year 2014-2016, which distributed into three level of severity
like death (D), Non-Permanent Disability (NPD) and Permanent Disability (PD). At
the year 2014, there is a total number of 2805 occupational accidents being reported
by DOSH. The total number of occupational accidents has shot up to 3345 cases at
the year 2015 which is an increment of 19.25% or 540 cases as compared to the
year 2014. At the year 2016, the total number of occupational accidents continues to
give a rise of 12.11% or 405 cases up until a total number of 3750 cases. As the
summarization to occupational accidents reported by DOSH, it appears that the
condition is not optimistic since the cases are in upward trend in these few years.

Several studies have been done and reported regarding the work-related
health issues from different work fields like health care professions, agriculture,
industries and etc. According to the studies, most of the employees claim to have
painful posture experience from neck, shoulder, lower back, upper limb, leg and etc.
due to lack of knowledge and practice on the ergonomics in the workplace. As the
solution to the raised issues, it is important to have ergonomics assessments on the
workers of Bromma Malaysia factory. The potential risk of ergonomics can be
determined by going through appropriate ergonomics assessments with different
kinds of approaches and devices. This paper presents a review on the studies on the
ergonomic assessment, which could be used as a reference to evaluate the
knowledge of the Bromma office workers on how well they know about the safety of

1
ergonomics. In the conclusion we will be able to assets whether they need trainings
to develop knowledge on ergonomic practice.

Figure 1: Occupational Accidents Statistics by Years

1.2 Company background

Bromma is a world known automatize crane spreaders and rotators

manufacturer and has been in service since the 1960’s. At present days, this
company manufactures more than 2000 spreaders of all types per year. The
spreaders are in operation around the globe. More than 9,000 of these spreaders are
still in operation today. Bromma is a Swedish based company, which has many
branches in North America and Asia. Bromma recently acquired by Cargotec
Corporation, which consists of three key players of cargo handling industry such as
Kalmar, Hiab and McGregor.

2
 For more than 30 years, Bromma has been moving the containers that move
the world’s cargo. Today 97 out of the top 100 container terminals in the world uses
Bromma spreaders, in fact, Bromma is the market leader in every segment of crane
spreaders and each day their spreaders handled more containers than all our
spreader competitors combined.

Bromma is a manufacturing giant, which produces container spreaders like

Single Lift Spreaders, Twin Lift Spreaders, Tandem Spreaders, Yard Gantry
Spreaders, Mobile Harbour Spreaders, Reach Stacker spreader and many others.
Bromma is that the world leader in ship-to-shore crane spreaders with quite number
of the worldwide market. Bromma Malaysia has 850 employees and divided into two
category which is blue collars and white collars. In this study, we are going to focus
the ergonomic practice among office workers in Bromma Malaysia.

1.3 Background of the study

The objective of this study was to ascertain the safety practice among office
workers in Bromma Malaysia. Also, to determine the significant difference in the
safety practice among office workers in Bromma Malaysia when classified as to
categories. Further, to determine the personal factors that best predict safety
practices. Furthermore, to formulate a safety practical program that will improve the
safety practices of the office workers in Bromma Malaysia.

Currently there are many cases of occupational diseases caused by

ergonomics risk factors have been reported to DOSH. Indirectly, this will affect labour
productivity, profitability and costs of compensation. These guidelines are expected
to help the industry to resolve these issues which could reduce cases of occupational
diseases.

Ergonomics-related disorders have recently emerged as near epidemic trend

in the workplace. Based on Figure 1.1, Social Security Organization (SOCSO) (2015)
has reported an exponentially increasing trend of reported cases. Nevertheless, the
trend was postulated to be due to the increase in awareness among Malaysian
employers and employees as the reporting rate increases.

3
Figure 1.1: Trend of Reported Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDS) From 2005 - 2014

Based on Figure 1.2, SOSCO has reported increasing trend of employees'

compensation of occupational diseases (permanent and temporary benefit) from
RM2.65 million in 2009 to RM14.0S million in 2014. From the total compensation for
occupational diseases, the compensation due to musculoskeletal disorders
constitutes a significant portion, which was also showing an overall increasing trend
from 2009 to 2014.

4
Figure 1.2: Trend of recorded musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) relative to
occupational diseases (OD) cases and compensation reported for permanent
disability from 2009 – 2014

The study involved workers from Bromma Malaysia, including males and
females aged 20 to 57. For the purposes of the study an original questionnaire was
developed consisting of 20 questions and particulars which was used to examine the
knowledge and opinions of workers in Bromma Malaysia about the principles of
ergonomics and their application in the workplace of the respondents and also it
allowed to assess the actual state of adaptation of office equipment elements
according to ergonomic principles.

The sample for the study was selected in a non-probabilistic (intentional)

manner. The sampling method was used which is based on data availability, that is:
in the workplaces of workers (in corporations) and the snowball method, where
workers who were successfully reached were asked to pass the questionnaire to
friends working in other department in Bromma Malaysia. The criterion for inclusion
in the study was currently held a worker position in a corporation.

5
1.4 Problem statement

Ergonomics so far has had a significant impact in Malaysia. For most

Malaysian managers ergonomics is not considered associated with performance, but
rather with occupational health and safety and legislation. Many changes need to be
made within the ergonomics research, education and practice community by
integrating concepts from the social sciences with technological advances into
Malaysian culture to enhance productivity and sustainable improvements in the
quality of life, while achieving essential health and safety goals.

In the workforce today, computer use causes some individuals to experience

physical disorders, which range from simple fatigue to permanent disabilities
(Pasher, 1997). Some of the more common work-related physical disorders are
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, tennis elbow, lower back strain, etc. Such disorders are
often aggravated further with the office desk/chair set-up and design. The discipline
of ergonomics is designed to address, and hopefully mitigate such issues by
examining the relationship between humans and their work. When a person sits, all
the body parts interact in a chain of mechanical events with many short-term and
long-term stresses (Miller, 2001). The physical causes of back discomfort or
cumulative back pain are believed to stem from the same kinds of ergonomic
stresses, or risk factors that cause musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) of the upper
limbs (Miller, 2001).

Sitting at work for a long time in the office can cause the musculoskeletal
disorders (MSDs) injury. Sustaining any static posture, such as sitting can affect the
human body in terms of increasing the pressure on muscles, ligaments and other soft
tissues of the musculoskeletal system. Common symptoms presented as discomfort
and pain on the back, neck and shoulders have been reported by workers who sit for
most of their workday. If no intervention is made, this could continue for times
causing chronic effect that bring life changing injuries. Nevertheless, musculoskeletal
disorders (MSDs) such as back pain and other health effects associated with
prolonged sitting can be eliminated or minimized through well designated chairs and
other aspects of workstations and design work. In general, an ergonomic checklist
has been used to assist office workers to select chairs that can reduce injury and
back pain. After that, this assessment tool can propose the users to utilize a better
chair design that have adjustable armrest, lumbar support, adjusted backrest at 20
degrees and adjustable seat height with the range of 39 cm to 52 cm.

6
1.5 Research objectives

The general purpose of this study to be conducted is to define on the types of

factors that affects the understandings of the ergonomic assessment in the office
workplace and has a several objectives to achieve, namely:

Research Objective 1: To assess ergonomics principles and their application

understanding among office workers.

Research Objective 2: To determine whether gender and age comes into the role
when understanding the ergonomics principles and their application.

Research Objective 3: To determine the relationship between OHS training and

knowledge about ergonomics of work at an office workstation.

Research Objective 4: To determine whether OHS training help acquiring

knowledge about ergonomics of work at an office workstation.

1.6 Research questions

This research is mainly developed or studied in order to get the answers for the
questions on the ergonomic assessment in the workplace and understanding of
safety ergonomic practice among the workers in Bromma Malaysia. Below are the
four types of the research questions that were developed in order to narrow down the
objectives of this research. The research questions are as follows:

Research Question 1: How well office workers understand the principles and
application of ergonomic?

Research Questions 2: Does gender and age come into the role when
understanding the ergonomic principles and their application?

Research Questions 3: Is there any relationship between OHS training and

knowledge about ergonomics of work at an office workstation?

Research Questions 4: Does OHS training help acquiring knowledge about

ergonomics of work at an office workstation?

7
1.7 Theoretical Framework

The theoretical framework demonstrating the relationship of interest between

variables is presented:

Training On Knowledge
Ergonomic Ergonomic
On

1.8 Significance of the study

The significance of this research is to quantify subjective occupant

understanding the safety ergonomics in work place that leads to discomfort in office
and physical work environment. The result of observational can be used in the
evaluation of the workers needs an OHS training to develop their awareness in safety
practices.

A productive work environment is a safe work environment. Regardless of the

type or size of a business, procedures for safety protect the staff, equipment, and
business property. By avoiding damage to equipment as well as minimizing injuries,
there will be more profit and fewer expenses for the business. Ergonomics is one of
the most-common workplace safety concerns because the non-ergonomic
environment may cause various health issues. Carpal tunnel syndrome, sore back,
tendonitis, and chronic cold and flu (due to lowered immunity) may come because of
inadequate or non-existent workplace ergonomic processes.

In 1993, (McCormick and Sanders) explained ergonomics as the application

of information about human abilities, limitations, and behavior toward creating jobs,
tasks, tools, and machines that facilitate a comfortable, effective, safe, and
productive work environment. In other words, ergonomics is the relationship between
the job or task and the worker. It includes studying aspects of the workplace, such as
work environment, physical environment, psychosocial environment, and technology.
Conducting an ergonomic risk assessment will help organizations understand and
review the work systems and designs present in their workspace, as well as to
understand if they are complying with the current legislation in this area.

8
Staff across many industries and occupations is exposed to various health risk
factors in the workplace. These factors include issues such as:

• Reaching overhead
• Lifting heavy items
• Pushing and pulling heavy objects
• Bending
• Wrong body postures
• Long hour sitting
• Straining the eyes looking at monitor

When done incorrectly, these activities affect the nervous and muscular
system, causing Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs). Work-related MSDs are among
the most-common reported causes of loss of work and absenteeism. However,
rotator cuff injuries, tendinitis, muscle strains, and back injuries can be prevented
thanks to ergonomics in the workplace. Employers need to do everything to set the
right working conditions for their staff and to ensure their safety. The work
environment should pose no serious harm to their safety, health, and welfare. To
implement a workplace ergonomics process, employers must:

 Create and maintain a safe workplace. The objectives and goals of the
organization’s ergonomic process must be clearly stated, and management
must assign responsibilities to staff members.
 When conducting an ergonomic risk assessment and developing processes,
the staff’s input must be taken into consideration.
 Train the staff, so they understand the importance of applied ergonomics
processes at work and are aware of the benefits.
 Appoint a competent staff member as the organization’s Safety Officer or
Representative to conduct periodic checklist evaluations of the applied
ergonomic process for its continuous improvement and long-term success.
 Encourage staff members to report early symptoms of MSD to reduce,
control, and eliminate these health problems.

9
 Organizations across many industries have successfully implemented
ergonomic solutions. Wanting to address their staff’s MSD injury risks, these
interventions include making changes in work practices, modifying existing
equipment, and purchasing new devices or tools. By eliminating unnecessary
movements and reducing physical demands, companies can lower their injury rates
and compensation costs as well as reduce employee turnover.

Proper and effective practical training and education is essential in order to

ensure the desired outcome. Often, practical training and education fail to deliver the
anticipated outcome due to various reasons such as competency of trainer, training
contents, audience education level, etc. As such, ergonomics practical training and
education should be made simple with multiple examples, hands-on training and
practical content. Additionally, the duration of training should not be too long. The
training can be modular or being conducted continuously in order to ensure
compliance.

1.9 The Organization of the study

First, we will identify the dire needs of this research in order to create a strong
foundation of understanding. Secondly to develop a theoretical framework with
supporting literature to evaluate the correct variables to generate the right questions
in that questionnaire, this is to avoid waste opportunity by creating wrong questions,
when the intention is to explore different areas. Once the questionnaire is completed,
the target population is random office staff’s in Bromma Malaysia. Once the
questionnaire has been answered, it will be tabulated and concluded with result.

10
 CHAPTER 2
LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Introduction

In this chapter 2, which discusses about the literature review, we will look into
some of the proofs and evidences from the earlier conducted research about the
ergonomic practice among workers. These earlier done research studies are very
crucial for the upcoming researches as they can provide the wide-ranging proofs and
back up the to be done researches. The ranges in the satisfaction of the employee
will be studied comprehensively to find out the other types of crucial factors that can
have the possible positive or negative impacts towards the ergonomic practice
among workers.

2.2 Ergonomics Issue of the office seating at work

Back pain is one of the most common work-related injuries and is often
caused by ordinary work activities such as sitting on office chair or heavy lifting
(John, 2000). By applying ergonomic principles to the study of the workplace it may
help workers preventing work-related back pain and injury and a healthy back. John
stated the goal of an ergonomics program in the industry is to adapt the workplace to
a specific worker, depending on the job description, required tasks, and physical
makeup of the employee performing those tasks. There are Two types of situations
which can typically cause people to begin having back pain or to sustain a back injury
while working (John, 2014).

Non-accidental injury, where pain arises as a result of normal activities and

requirements of the task. Poor body mechanics (such as slouching in an office chair),
prolonged activity, repetitive motions, and fatigue are major contributors to these
injuries. This may occur from sitting in an office chair or standing for too long in one
position.

Accidental injury occurs when an unexpected event triggers injury during the
task. A load that slips or shift as it is being lifted, and a slip and fall or hitting one’s
head on a cabinet door are typical examples. This accident can jolt the neck, back,
and other joints, which caused muscle strain or tearing of soft tissue in the back.

11
 Figure 2.1 below shows all components of the workstation which fit each
other. East Carolina University, (2007) stated ergonomic keyboards, ergonomic mice,
ergo desks, office chairs and ergonomic accessories remain productive and pain free
at work. Ergonomic resources, tools and home office design is not just about being
attractive. Home office set-up is not just about function. Home office productivity is
about comfort, which means ergonomics.

People who sit most of the day, such as those who works with computer while
sitting on office chair, are also at high risk for non-accidental back injury. Office
ergonomics, or computer ergonomics, can help minimize the risk of repetitive injury,
such as carpal tunnel syndrome, and the risks associated with prolonged sitting on
office chair, such as neck strain, lower back pain, and leg pain (John, 2014).

Figure 2.1: The Ergonomic Computer Workstation (East Carolina University, 2013)

12
2.3 Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSD) for Office Seating

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) denoted health problem of the locomotive

apparatus, i.e. muscles, tendons, skeletons, cartilage, ligaments, nerves or
peripheral vascular system. Some MSDs are non-specific because only pain or
discomfort exists without evidence of a velar specific disorder. Musculoskeletal
disorders (MSDs) are a major cause of work-related disabilities and injuries in the
developed and industrialized developing countries (Gallagher, 2005).
Musculoskeletal disorders primarily focus on the skeletal muscles and their
attachments to the bones. Since nerves play a major role in muscle contraction and
feeling, they also have an important role in these types of disorders. There are three
common forms of musculoskeletal disorders which health and safety professional
should be concerned with: Cumulative Trauma Disorders of the extremities, back
injuries, and segmental and whole body vibration injuries. The most common of
musculoskeletal disorders involved the back (Ergonomics).

Work-related MSDs can affect shoulders, arms, elbows, wrists, hands, back,
legs and feet. It is caused by forceful or repetitive movements or a poor working
posture. Symptoms include tenderness, aches and pains, tingling, stiffness and
swelling. Lower and upper back pain as well as muscle spasm could be due to
incorrect seating, which also affects the cervical spine and neck muscles leading to
pain (Kuorinka, 1987). (Crawford et al., 2005) concluded that physical and
psychosocial risk factors are implicated in the etiology of MSDs especially those
affecting the neck and shoulder regions. Jensen et al. showed that neck symptoms
were the most common (53%) among female call center workers, followed by
shoulder (42%) and hand/wrist (30%) symptoms (Jensen et al., 2002). The specific
nature of dental work is connected with and accompanied by onerous and harmful
effects on the musculoskeletal system. Standing or sitting positions which are
frequently adopted, twisting of the spine, connected with excessive tightening of
some tissues and the straining of others, could be the source of painful disorders and
diseases of the musculoskeletal system (Forde, 2002). From previous studies, male
dentist had greater prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms in the low back, n =
199/204 (98%), wrist/hand, n = 104/204 (51%) and neck, n = 102/204 (50%) regions,
while the female dentists reported symptoms greater in the neck, n = 304/332 (92%),
wrist/hand,n = 288/332 (73.46%), and shoulder, n = 273/332 (82%) regions. The
figure 2.2 shown comparison of regions involved with work related musculoskeletal
symptoms between male and female dentist.

13
Figure 2.2: Comparison of Regions Involved with Work Related Musculoskeletal
Symptoms between Male and Female Dentist (Vijaya, 2013).

2.4 Chair Adjustments

Chairs have to be selected after a thorough review and testing of what is

available on the market. Desks which are currently used in the offices is not
adjustable for height, thus that person can only able to adopt a suitable, fully
supported working posture by adjusting the chair (McKeown, 2008). Individuals
performing a screen based operation at work, or even a simple pen and paper task,
should not be used non-adjustable chairs unless their task lasts for only a few
minutes at a time and will not be repeated at regular intervals (McKeown, 2008).

The chair should be adjustable for height. The backrest or independent

internal lumbar support should be designed so that it can be repositioned relative to
the seated user; alternatively, the backrest should be constructed of a material that
molds around the individual. It should have five prongs on the base with casters
(unless the floor covering makes this unsuitable), and the padding should be
sufficient to prevent the user from coming in contact with or being aware of the hard
edges of the shell of the seat (McKeown, 2008). For example, a chair could be too
high and the arm rests too far apart for a short, slim person. In addition, chairs may
not suit every task or arrangement at the workstation. A chair becomes ergonomic
only when it specifically suits a worker's size (body dimensions), his or her particular
workstation, and the tasks that must be performed there. It is possible to find the right

14
chair, although it is not always easy (Canada, 2014). Figure 2.3 below show the
major dimension of the seat.

Figure 2.3: Major Dimension of the Seat (Canada, 2014)

2.5 Seat comfort

Feeling of comfort when sitting is associated with such descriptive words as

warm, soft, plush, spacious, supported, safe pleased, relaxed and restful. However,
comfortability depends very much on the individual habits, on the environment and
task at hand, and on the passage of time (Helander, 1997). Esthetics plays a role: if
we like the appearance, the color, and the ambience, we are inclined to feel
comfortable. Appealing upholstery, for example, can strongly contribute to the feeling
of comfort, especially when it is neither too soft nor too stiff, but distributes body
pressure along the contact area, and if it breathes by letting heat and humidity
escape as it supports the body (Michiel, 2003).

15
 The researcher concluded that it is apparently more difficult to rank chairs,
unless truly unsuitable, by the attributes of annoyance (as opposed to comfort)
because the body is surprisingly adaptive except when the sitter has a bad back. In
contrast, comfort descriptors proved to be sensitive and discriminating for ranking
chairs in terms of preference. (Helander et al., 1997) It is also of interest to note that
preference rankings of chairs could be established early during the sitting trials; they
did not change much with sitting duration. Still, it is not clear whether a few minutes
of sitting on chairs are sufficient to assess them, or whether it takes longer trial
periods (Helander, 1997). The comfort sitting in the office is an important thing
because that also can reduce the injury and back pain. The example of comfort
sitting at the office workstation on the chair shown on the Figure 2.4 below. There is
some tips for ergonomic from researcher Reimer, (2015) which is headed upright and
over your shoulders, eye looking slightly downward (30° range from horizontal line of
sight) without bending from the neck, back should be supported by the backrest of
the chair that promotes the natural curve of the lower back, elbow bent at 90°,
forearm horizontal. Shoulders should be relaxed, but not depressed, thighs horizontal
with 90° - 110° angle t the hip and feet fully supported and flat on the floor.

Figure 2.4: The Example Comfort Sitting in the Office Chair (Reimer, 2015)

16
2.6 Reliability

Reliability is a major concern when a psychological test is used to measure

some attribute or behavior (Rosenthal and Rosnow, 1991). For instance, to
understand the functioning of a test, it is important that the test which is used
consistently discriminates individuals at one time or over a course of time. In other
words, reliability is the extent to which measurements are repeatable – when different
persons perform the measurements, on different occasions, under different
conditions, with supposedly alternative instruments which measure the same thing. In
sum, reliability is the consistency of measurement (Bollen, 1989), or stability of
measurement over a variety of conditions in which basically the same results should
be obtained (Nunnally, 1978).

Because reliability is the consistency of measurement over time or stability of

measurement over a variety of conditions, the most commonly used technique to
estimate reliability is with a measure of association, the correlation coefficient, often
termed the reliability coefficient (Rosnow and Rosenthal, 1991). The reliability
coefficient is the correlation between two or more variables (here tests, items, or
raters) which measure the same thing. Typical methods to estimate test reliability in
behavioral research are: test-retest reliability, alternative forms, split-halves, inter-
rater reliability, and internal consistency. There are three main concerns in reliability

2.7 Theoretical Foundation

There are many researches are basically been conducted to study on the
ergonomic practice among office workers and the satisfaction of the employees. Few
of the studies conducted are as discussed in the below paragraphs:

A. (John, 2000)

In this research study, the researcher mentioned back pain is one of the most
common work-related injuries and is often caused by ordinary work activities such as
sitting on office chair or heavy lifting (John, 2000). By applying ergonomic principles
to the study of the workplace it may help workers preventing work-related back pain
and injury and a healthy back. John stated the goal of an ergonomics program in the
industry is to adapt the workplace to a specific worker, depending on the job

17
description, required tasks, and physical makeup of the employee performing those
tasks.

B. (John, 2014)

The same researcher mentioned there are two types of situations which can
typically cause people to begin having back pain or to sustain a back injury while
working. Non-accidental injury, where pain arises as a result of normal activities and
requirements of the task. Poor body mechanics (such as slouching in an office chair),
prolonged activity, repetitive motions, and fatigue are major contributors to these
injuries. This may occur from sitting in an office chair or standing for too long in one
position. Accidental injury accours when an unexpected event triggers injury during
the task. A load that slips or shifts as it is being lifted, and a slip and fall or hitting
one’s head on a cabinet door are typical examples. These accident can jolt the neck,
back and other joints which caused muscle strain or tearing of soft tissue in the back.

C. East Carolina University, (2007)

Stated ergonomic keyboards, ergonomic mice, ergo desks, office chairs and
ergonomic accessories remain productive and pain free at work. Ergonomic
resources, tools and home office design is not just about being attractive. Home
office set-up is not just about function. Home office productivity is about comfort,
which means ergonomics. People who sit most of the day, such as those who works
with computer while sitting on office chair, are also at high risk for non-accidental
back injury. Office ergonomics, or computer ergonomics, can help minimize the risk
of repetitive injury, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, and the risks associated with
prolonged sitting on office chair, such as neck strain, lower back pain, and leg pain

D. Gallagher, (2005)

Mentioned Musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) denoted health problem of the

locomotive apparatus, i.e. muscles, tendons, skeletons, cartilage, ligaments, nerves
or peripheral vascular system. Some MSDs are non-specific because only pain or
discomfort exists without evidence of a velar specific disorder. Musculoskeletal
disorders (MSDs) are a major cause of work-related disabilities and injuries in the
developed and industrialized developing countries Musculoskeletal disorders
primarily focus on the skeletal muscles and their attachments to the bones. Since

18
nerves play a major role in muscle contraction and feeling, they also have an
important role in these types of disorders. There are three common forms of
musculoskeletal disorders which health and safety professional should be concerned
with: Cumulative Trauma Disorders of the extremities, back injuries, and segmental
and whole body vibration injuries. The most common of musculoskeletal disorders
involved the back (Ergonomics).

E. Kuorinka, (1987)

Mentioned Work-related MSDs can affect shoulders, arms, elbows, wrists,

hands, back, legs and feet. It is caused by forceful or repetitive movements or a poor
working posture. Symptoms include tenderness, aches and pains, tingling, stiffness
and swelling. Lower and upper back pain as well as muscle spasm could be due to
incorrect seating, which also affects the cervical spine and neck muscles leading to
pain.

F. Gutnick (2007)

According to the researcher a study by The National Safety Council in USA

established that on an average workday, one million employees will be absent from
work due to job stress. Other researchers such as Taiwo (2009:305) claims that
about 86% of productivity problems reside in the work environments. The work
environment has effect on the performance of employees. The type of work
environment in which employees operate determines the way in which such
enterprises prosper.

G. Asante, (2012)

Mentioned although other organisational elements such as praise and

recognition, compensation and financial reward impact on employee performance,
studies have also shown that an employee’s workplace environment is a key
determinant of their level of performance. How well the workplace engages an
employee impacts their level of motivation to perform. Indeed, poor workplace
environment influences employees: health and safety, error rate, level of innovation,
collaboration with other employees, absenteeism and, ultimately, how long they stay
in the job. Depicted his own conceptual view of the relationship between ergonomics
design and employee performance as shown in Figure 1. His conceptualized

19
framework defines the set of workplace variables that are perceived to impacts on an
employee performance. These variables such as noise level, temperature etc. are
essentially independent variables affecting employee performance, the dependent
variable. Asante’s (2012) study, like other researchers in the field of ergonomics,
confirmed that deficiencies of ergonomics design and input variables have varying
adverse effects on the performance of employees.

H. Crawford et al., (2005)

Concluded that physical and psychosocial risk factors are implicated in the
aetiology of MSDs especially those affecting the neck and shoulder regions.

I. Jensen et al., (2002)

Showed that neck symptoms were the most common (53%) among female call
center workers, followed by shoulder (42%) and hand/wrist (30%) symptoms.

J. Forde, (2002)

Mentioned the specific nature of dental work is connected with and

accompanied by onerous and harmful effects on the musculoskeletal system.
Standing or sitting positions which are frequently adopted, twisting of the spine,
connected with excessive tightening of some tissues and the straining of others,
could be the source of painful disorders and diseases of the musculoskeletal system

2.8 Empirical Research

In the year 2018, M. Foszcz, A. Bac has mentioned that the age of the
respondents had a significant impact on their knowledge of the principles of
ergonomics at an office workstation. The source of knowledge acquisition by
respondents about the principles of ergonomics of an office workstation did not affect
their opinion on who should deal with the adaptation of the office space. According to
the opinion of the surveyed office workers, a computer mouse was the least-adapted
office equipment element in terms of ergonomics.

20
 People who spend almost the whole day of their work behind the desk and in
front of the computer, have a limited field of physical activity, and also expose
themselves to the danger of radiation of electronic devices that surround them. After
a full day of work, people working behind the desk most often complain of back pain
and headache, neck pain and shoulder tension. To a large extent, this is due to
inadequate organization of space and failure to comply with ergonomic
recommendations at the workstation. Office work rooms are to enable employees to
have hygienic and safe working conditions. Well-suited ergonomically selected
furniture and computer equipment allow you to adopt a non-straining body position,
which is very important during a few hours of work behind the desk. The ideal
situation is matching furniture to the individual needs of each employee, but there are
also general, basic recommendations for standard equipment, which include not only
the dimensions of the room or furniture itself, but also standards regarding
temperature, humidity and lighting.

In her study she did mentioned All the aforementioned elements have a
significant impact not only on work safety, but also on comfort, convenience,
satisfaction and well-being of employees The employer is the party who should
particularly take care of safe, hygienic and ergonomic working conditions. It is
responsible for the state of occupational health and safety in the workplace. The
employer’s duty is to protect the health and life of employees, so it must ensure that
the workplace complies with OHS regulations, control the implementation of
instructions related to it, and immediately remove any deficiencies in this regard.
Unfortunately, very often it happens that when organizing an office workstation, the
principles of ergonomics are treated in a marginal way or are completely omitted.
This is a big mistake, because a properly designed office workstation, arranged in an
ergonomic way, improves employee efficiency, improves health and well-being,
reduces the number of accidents and occupational risk, reduces the costs due to
employee absence, as well as hinder creative thinking.

21
2.9 Proposed frequency frame work

APPLICATIONS

TRAININGS
ERGONOMIC GENDER
AWARENESS

AGE

22
 CHAPTER 3
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3.1 Introduction

This Section addresses the elements of the techniques used for the study. In
fact, I would like to prepare the questionnaires for 100 users and expect at least 60
responders based on the survey. This chapter will explain how the work will be done.

3.2 Research design

Study concept Saunders et al. ( 2009) relates to the essence of the object of
the examination and the response to the problem. Bryman and Bell ( 2007) proposed
that the nature of the study greatly impacts the findings and assumptions of
observational data.

Quantitative analysis is the compilation of data in order to define the influence

among dependent and independent variables. Creswell ( 2003) can measure and be
subject to statistical analysis by articulating quantitative studies in order to support or
refute relationship knowledge. In addition, there are issues with architecture,
calculation and interpretation of quantitative science.

Application challenges involve reciprocal sampling inferences and a number

of design types. The question of measurement is assessing reliability and validity.
The analytical questions are instruments or analytical methods used to measure the
relation between the dependent variable and independent variables.

3.3 Study Population and Sampling Procedures

Saunders et al . ( 2009) indicated that data can be obtained by or extracted

from the whole community through data collection. To get it from the total population
takes time and is expensive. Bryman & Bell (2007) has explained that it is possible to
collect data from a population sample representing the population.

The process of allocation of questionnaires is the selection technique used in

this research. A powerful tool for gathering information from respondents is the
method of dissemination of questionnaires. This is due to the delivery of

23
questionnaires which, through a cheaper method, may deliver an accurate and
consistent answer. Furthermore, the questionnaire distribution technique facilitates
the compilation of the sample by the researchers and offers an uninterrupted method
for selecting the sample. Consequently, by way of questionnaire dissemination, the
researcher may achieve an efficient and reliable answer.

The study of convenience sampling is an non-probability study type. The

interviewer picks the components of the sample as the interviewee is at the right
location at the right moment. These are the simplest and least time intensive
approaches for sampling. Malhotra's great advantage (2004) is the quick-to-reach
and quick to measure sample units.

3.3.1 Population

Objective participants are a group of individuals who have conducted the

experiment to help the investigator draw conclusions. The employees working in
Bromma Malaysia Ipoh are the unique focus population of this research.

3.4 Data Collection Method

The study used primary information and structured questionnaires were used
for the primary method for gathering information. The survey was divided into three
primary components, Part I, II and III. Part I of the questionnaire consisted of four
questions, including the age, gender and education qualifications, employment years,
and the requested general information on the respondent.

Part II of the questionnaire aimed to develop the methods used to determine

the knowledge and opinions of office workers in corporations about the principles of
ergonomics and their application in the workplace. It had 10 questions. From those
10 question there will be one mark given to each correctly answered question and in
total there will be 10/10 marks as all answered correctly.

Finally, Part III consisted of a set of questions aimed at determining

employees overview on the necessity of having periodic safety and ergonomic
trainings and asking respondents to give their views by ticking "Strongly Agree"
options one to five for "Strongly Disagree."

24
3.5 Data Analysis Method

From a survey via questionnaires, data will be then collected via online
platform, these data will be Crossed-tabulated and this the quantitative statistics
evaluation methods. It is a favored technique due to the fact it makes use of a simple
tabular form to draw inferences between distinctive data sets within the lookup study.
It incorporates facts it is together specific or have some reference to one another.
The expected result of the respondents similarly as consequences from sub-groups
of survey respondents. Cross tabulations enable this research to finalized and
conclude at relationships between the variables we are exploring which can also can
be the conformity of the theoretical diagram suggested as well as to prove the result
presented.

3.6 Descriptive Analysis Techniques

From the data tabulated, the conclusion can be made from the fact shown by
the relationship between variables whether or not it is positively related or otherwise,
the data tabulated will be stated and described as per shown by the numerical pie
chart finalized. The independent variables and dependent variable can be seen
whether or not positively correlated as per the hypothesis. Thus, ergonomic practice
among office workers in Bromma Malaysia can be proven and to be justified whether
OSH trainings is a compulsory factor to be conducted.

The descriptive statistics were used to provide basic features of the research
data. This study help researcher to identify sample characteristics that influence the
conclusion. When the study objective is involved, the descriptive analyses are
performed to enhance the reader's knowledge, comprehension and application
related to the research (Hussain, 2014).

It involves the description of data including of frequencies, proportions,

mean, median, quartiles, standard deviation and others. The measurement of the
statistics depends on type of variables either to be qualitative or quantitative.

25
3.7 Inferential Analysis Technique

From the descriptive analysis, as per the result of the findings, this study will
then justify the reasoning shown by the weightage from the pie chart from the data,
the reasoning on the facts presented by data have to be supported by a
substantiated stance, of why the result shown that as such, based on the crossed
tabulation, the central tendency has to be tested, and the dispersion has to be
confirmed accurate, thus the result is reliable in order to be justified, this study will
definitely have limitations and it has to function as a guide for Bromma management
in making the right decision for the betterment of the organization as a whole,
therefore a standard deviation needs to be part of the process in order to have
check and balance of the accuracy prior to making justification of the result shown.

3.7.1 Two Independent Samples T – Test

The Independent Samples t-test can be used to see if two means are
different from each other when the two samples that the means are based on were
taken from different individuals who have not been matched. When two samples are
involved, the samples can come from different individuals who are not matched (the
samples are independent of each other.) Alternatively, the sample can come from the
same individuals (the samples are paired with each other) and the samples are not
independent of each other. A third alternative is that the samples can come from
different individuals who have been matched on a variable of interest; this type of
sample will not be independent. The following are assumptions necessary for this
two-sample test of means:

i. The sampled populations follow the normal distribution.

ii. The two samples are from independent populations.

iii. The standard deviations of the two populations are unknown but equal.

3.7.2 Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) Test

The ANOVA test is used to determine if the various sample means came from
a single population or populations with different means. The underlying strategy is to
assume that there are no differences in the population, that is, assume that there is
just one population. Then the population variance is estimated two ways and the ratio
of these two estimates is calculated. If the sample means come from populations with

26
the same mean, then the two methods for estimating the population variance are the
same and the F ratio will be about one (1). The F distribution tells when the ratio is
too much larger than 1 to have occurred by chance.

3.7.3 Pearson Correlation Analysis

Pearson correlation coefficient purpose is to measure linear relation between

two variables. Therefore, this study used the method to test the relationship of the
safety climate towards risk behaviour in the shipyard industry. The analysis of this
method will illustrate the correlation strength and the relationship of the variables,
whether it is negative or positive. The strength between two variables ranges
between 0 and 1 and quantifies the direction and strength between two variables.
The correlation between two variables may be positive. The sample correlation
coefficient denoted as r. According to Mindrila and Phoebe (n.d.) states that strength
of relationship can identified into four, which are: r< 0.3 = none or very weak
relationship, 0.3< r< 0.5 = weak relationship, 0.5< r< 0.7 = moderate relationship
and r> 0.7 = strong relationship. Table 3.1, shows the interpretation of the Pearson
Correlation coefficient.

Table 3.1 Interpretation of Pearson Correlation coefficient. (Source: A. Beldjazia and

D. Alatou (2016))
Correlation Coefficient R Interpretation Relations
0.00-0.19 very weak
0.20-0.39 weak
0.40-0.59 moderate
0.60-0.79 strong
0.80-1.0 very strong

3.7.4 Linear Regression Analysis

The linear regression analysis is the method to be used in this research. This
method purpose is to predict the dependent variable based on the predictor
variables. It estimates the relationship between the dependent variable and the
independent variables. The formula of the linear regression is according to Prichard
and Barwick (2003) and as shown below:

27
 Linear Regression formula

𝑌 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑐

The Y in this formula is the dependent variable for this research, which is risk
behaviour. The changes in Y will be affected by the changes in the x when it is
increase or decrease. The m in the formula is the value from the independent
variable, which is safety climate that later on the value will be obtained from the
survey questionnaire result.

The relationship of the safety climate and risk behaviour is measured and by
the calculation of the mx+ c. The m are the independent variables and y is the
dependent variables. Further, the m is the slope of the line and c is the constant
value, which is the y-intercept (value of Y when x=0).

3.8 Summary of Chapter 3

This will be considered as a new study in Bromma Malaysia, to evaluate the

ergonomic practice among office workers in Bromma Malaysia. Thus, there be a
limitation of this study for the next researcher to work on. The variables and the
hypothesis we are exploring require more work for further research in the future. The
variables and tabulation process is just a basic simple manner as of time constraint
and yet the reasoning for each question are based on the respondents answers on
the online survey, for the time being, to ensure the quality of the findings are for the
decision making purpose, which Bromma Malaysia to evaluate and understand the
level of understandability of the employees on ergonomic practices. Therefore, this
research is accelerated for the usage of Bromma in deciding to enhance the
ergonomic practice of the employees.

28
 CHAPTER 4
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

4.1 Chapter Overview

In this chapter, further reasoning analysis has been done to tabulate the data
collected, evaluate and analyze the respondents’ data from the online questionnaire
that was distributed earlier. Initially, the pilot test has been conducted to test the
reliability and validity of the questionnaire that were adopted from previous research
that study the similar research topic. Subsequently, the final data collection has been
analyzed in terms of demographic profile as well as hypotheses testing to measure
the significance of the relationship between all variables according to the assessment
of the structural model.

4.2 Measurement Instrument

4.2.1 Pilot Test

In this pilot test, 100 set of questionnaires were distributed online via Google
form link in which about 63 respondents had participated within the timeline set which
is from 13th April until 12th May 2021.

Thus, all the data from 63 respondents has been used to run the reliability
test and factor analysis to determine whether the initially designed questionnaire is
suitable for actual data collection.

29
4.3 Descriptive Analysis

Part 1 (Tabulated Data) Demographic Question:

Question: 1

Achieving gender equality in all aspects of employment is now a key European

priority. It is a matter of rights, but it is also a matter of sound economic policy,
especially considering the human and economic costs of injuries and ill health
caused or made worse by work. Gender identity refers to the internal and
psychological sense of self, regardless of what sex a person was assigned at birth.
When asking about gender as a category, words like woman, man, and trans* should
be used. However, we put in front only two that is male and female in this survey. By
looking at the pattern, we can see 54% of males participated in the survey whereby
47.6% of female also took place to contribute their input.

By combining the both bi matched data, we are prone to distribute the

statistical character of this study to evaluate the ergonomic practice among Bromma
office employees. Later in the statistical study, we could see the average of
understanding in between the two genders and from there we could conclude
whether gender plays a role in understanding ergonomic practices among office
employees or not.

30
Question: 2

The participated respondents, as recorded in the pie chart shown, mostly

participated by the age range of 30 – 39, (47.6%). middle age society is the majority
respondents of this research followed by the elder age (40 – 49) with 31.7% score.
With very little of youth’s from 20 – 29 and 20.6%. From this data, we can conclude
the majority office workers are middle age society from the age of 30 to 39. This
profile will be described further with more characteristics. We strongly believe that
most of the middle age respondents is the prime population in Bromma office
environment.

31
Question: 3

The result shown that, the most representative from the population of
respondents targeted are the employees with the years of service within 1~5 years
about 49.2% score, however the second highest respondents contributed from 5~10
years and that is about 30.2% score, followed by 10~15 years’ service population of
12.7% score. The rest is 15~20 years 3 people and 20 years and plus is two people.
This can be concluded that, the 1~5 years employees are the prominent contributors
in this survey. However the second important part to focus on is, the contribution
from 5~10 years of service employees and their input would be the second
prioritization in evaluating the data collected. All the employees who participated in
this survey are the permanent job holders and those part timers and freelancers was
not included.

32
Question: 4

Education is significant demographic element to be studied, this pie chart

shows the background information of education level, of all the participating
respondents, and the study have found out the highest education level among all
Bromma office workers is Graduate covers degree to Masters with 63.5%, followed
STPM/Diploma level with 22.2%. There are few respondent with SPM and
Professional that sharing the same level of 14.3%. By looking at the pie chart, it can
be concluded that, the Bromma office workers are educated community and they
have the ideas to contribute their best in this survey.

Some researchers studied on the combination of education and training as

the factors considered in a critical success factor for practice. This study is to identify
to what extent the level of formal education, working experience as OHS and training
can significantly affect the level of ergonomics awareness and practice.

33
Part 2 (Application and Understanding of ergonomic principals)

Study on the ergonomic practices among office workers in Bromma

Malaysia. Please choose the answers base on your understandings. Each
question correctly answered will be given 1 mark.

Question 1:

Participants was called to answer the question by choosing the correct

answer and base on the correctly answered question there will be one mark given for
each questions. By looking at the above bar chart for question no 1. We could
conclude 57.1% of the participants including male and female answered it correctly.
We could say 42.9% of the participants not understands what the major ergonomics
risk factors are. In a conclusion we would rather define that half of the participants do
not fully understands the application and principal of ergonomic in work
environments.

34
Question 2:

By looking at the above bar chart for question no 2. We could conclude

47.6% of the participants including male and female answered it correctly. The
balance of 52.4% of the participants not understands that all the factors given in the
question were the contributing factors of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. In a conclusion
we would rather define that more than half of the participants do not fully understands
the application and principal of ergonomic in work environments.

35
Question 3:

Question three above expressing the requirement on posture adjustment

while working on computer. By looking at the bar chart, we could conclude 54% of
the participants including male and female answered it correctly. The balance of 46%
of the participants do not understands the minimum time period to move around while
working in a computer. Prolonged sitting could lead to musculoskeletal disorders
(MSD), an employee whom working on computer should every 20-30 minutes, take
a brief (2-5 minute) break to stretch and/or walk around.

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) are injuries or disorders of the muscles,

nerves, tendons, joints, cartilage, and spinal discs. In a conclusion we would rather
define that nearly half of the participants do not fully understands the application and
principal of ergonomic in work environments.

36
Question 4:

Question four above addressing the purpose of an office chair and which part
of the back to be supported on posture adjustment while working on computer. By
looking at the bar chart, we could conclude 41.3% of the participants including male
and female answered it correctly. The balance of 58.7% of the participants do not
understands the purpose of office chair and which part of body mechanisms to be
supported while working in a computer.

Your bottom should be pressed against the back of your chair, and there
should be a cushion that causes your lower back to arch slightly so that you do not
slump forward or slouch down in the chair as you tire over time. This low back
support in the office chair is essential to minimize the load (strain) on your back.

37
Question 5:

Question 5 above is asking about the handling of tools. By looking at the bar
chart, we could conclude 68.3% of the participants including male and female
answered it correctly. The balance of 31.7% of the participants do not understands
that all the factors given in the question were the contributing factors of improper
handling of tools in work environments. In a conclusion we would rather define that
nearly less than half of the participants do not fully understands the application and
principal of ergonomic in work environments.

38
Question 6:

By looking at the above bar chart for question no 6. We could conclude only
28.6% of the participants including male and female answered it correctly. We could
say 71.4% of the participants do not understands or they might over looked the word
of heavy objects and rather choose the correct posture to lift objects. In a conclusion
we would rather define that more than half of the participants do not fully understands
the application and principal of work ergonomic.

39
Question 7:

By looking at the above bar chart for question no 7. We could conclude only
22.6% of the participants including male and female answered it correctly. We could
say 77.4% of the participants do not understands the correct height of the keyboard
from the top of the space bar down to the top of the desk. Keyboard should be flat on
the desk, or sloping gently away from you (negative tilt), our wrists should be straight,
flexed neither upwards nor downwards. In a conclusion we would rather define that
more than half of the participants do not fully understands the application and
principal of work ergonomic.

40
Question 8:

Question 8 above is asking what the top of the screen should never be
above. By looking at the bar chart, we could conclude 66.1% of the participants
including male and female answered it correctly. The balance of 33.9% of the
participants do not understands that the screen or monitor should be above the eye
level. When using a larger monitor (17", 19" or larger) or one that is oriented to the
"portrait" position, make sure that the top of the screen is not at a level higher than
the operator's eye. In a conclusion we would rather define that less than half of the
participants do not fully understands the application and principal of ergonomic in
work environments.

41
Question 9:

Question 9 above is asking how to adjust the keyboard if it is not adjustable.

By looking at the bar chart, we could conclude 55.7% of the participants including
male and female answered it correctly. The balance of 44.3% of the participants do
not understands how to mitigate the situation. We should place the wrist rests in front
of the keyboard under where we would naturally have our palms/wrists when not
typing. When we do that, we will instantly feel the support given to the wrists as they
are prevented from lowering and bending backwards.

In a conclusion we would rather define that nearly less than half of the
participants do not fully understands the application and principal of ergonomic in
work environments.

42
Question 10:

Question 10 above is asking what are the benefits of Ergonomics, in other

word the contribution of ergonomics towards an organization. By looking at the bar
chart, we could conclude 61.3% of the participants including male and female
answered it correctly. The balance of 38.7% of the participants do not understands
that all the statements above are the contribution factors that could benefits an
organizations success.

Ergonomics reduces costs systematically with approximately RM 1 out of

every RM 3 in workers compensation costs attributed to MSD’s. Ergonomics
improves productivity by designing a job to allow for good postures, less exertion,
fewer motions and better heights and reaches. Ergonomics improves quality for
example a good ergonomics leads to comforted and energetic workers that do their
best work. In a conclusion we would rather define that less than half of the
participants do not fully understands the application and principal of ergonomic in
work environments.

43
Part 3 Trainings. (Employees overview on the necessity of having periodic
safety and ergonomic trainings)

Question 1:

This chart shows a clear-cut agreement from all the office employees that
periodic Safety and Ergonomic training for office workspace is necessary to be
conducted for the benefit of office employees. Percentage of participants that
choosing the Likert (1= Strongly disagree, 2= Disagree, 3= Neutral, 4= Agree, 5=
Strongly Agree)

44
Question 2:

This chart shows a clear-cut agreement from all the office employees that
OHS training would shape up the way of worker's attitude or behavior so that he or
she will practice safety ergonomics in office environments. Percentage of participants
that choosing the Likert (1= Strongly disagree, 2= Disagree, 3= Neutral, 4= Agree,
5= Strongly Agree)

45
Question 3:

This chart shows a clear-cut agreement from all the office employees that
periodic OHS training would prevent the absence of ergonomic practices in-office
employees daily work life. Percentage of participants that choosing the Likert (1=
Strongly disagree, 2= Disagree, 3= Neutral, 4= Agree, 5= Strongly Agree)

46
4.4 Discussion on Descriptive Analysis

4.4.1 Section Demographic

Majority participants as in green highlighted.

Demographic

Gender Male 54% Female 47.6%

20 - 29 30 - 39 40 - 49 50 above
Age range
20.60% 47.60% 31.70% 0%

1 to 5 5 to 10 10 to 15 15 to 20 20 yrs +
Years of service
49.20% 30.20% 12.70% 4.80% 3.20%

SPM STPM/Diploma Professional Graduate

Education
6.30% 22.20% 7.90% 63.50%

Figure 4.0 : Demographic Analysis

Analysis was done to the demographics data and the result is summarized in
the table above, green highlighted is the majority participants who answered the
questionnaire. This shows that, most of the participants is male’s with 54% of the
majority and followed by female 47.6%. Most participants are individuals at the age of
30 – 39 years of age, they are around 47.6% from the total population, and most of
the participants are a graduate. We can consider the participants are having a
primary experience in office environment due to most of the participants comes from
the middle age category and 3 quarter of them were graduate.

47
Part 2: Application and Understanding of ergonomic principals

Marks Headcounts Percentage

0 1 1.59%
1 1 1.59%
2 5 7.94%
3 6 9.52%
4 19 30.16%
5 6 9.52%
6 11 17.46%
7 5 7.94%
8 5 7.94%
9 2 3.17%
10 2 3.17%
Total 63.00 100%

Figure 4.1: Percentage Table of Highest Population

The bar chart above showing the majority of the participants who earned
marks in section 2 questionnaire. In average 4.98/10 points was earned by the
participants. The study conclude that most of the participants achieved only 4 to 6
marks in average and that means they are in the borderline and showing lack of
knowledge in safety ergonomics. Root causes in terms of education level, working
experiences and ergonomics training received that may influence the ergonomics
practices was studied.

48
Part 3: Trainings. (Employees overview on the necessity of having periodic
safety and ergonomic trainings)

Likert range
Question 1 Strongly disagree 2 Disagree 3 Neutral 4 Agree 5 Strongly agree
Q1 19.4 38.7 41.9 100.0
Q2 25.8 45.2 29 100.0
Q3 1.6 24.2 45.2 29 100.0
Total 1.6 69.4 129.1 99.9 300.0
Average 1.6 23.1 43.0 33.3 101.1
Percentage 1.6% 23.1% 43% 33% 101%

Figure 4.2: Summary of Employee’s Overview on Training Necessity

The bar chart above showing the majority of the participant’s opinion on
having safety and ergonomic trainings. The bar chart showing positive pattern where
most of the participant agrees to have periodic trainings to enhance the ergonomic
learning. The study concluded that the lack of information or education or training
might hinder them for carrying out the ergonomics programs in the industries. For the
ergonomics, training 76.3% choose safety and ergonomic training to be conducted
periodically to enhance the knowledge. This is important for the management of
Bromma to take decisions to arrange the trainings for the employees.

49
4.5 Inferential Statistics Analysis

This section will catered objectives number two, three and four.

4.5.1 Two Independent Samples T - Test

The Independent Samples t-test can be used to see if two means are
different from each other when the two samples that the means are based on were
taken from different individuals who have not been matched. When two samples are
involved, the samples can come from different individuals who are not matched (the
samples are independent of each other.) Or the sample can come from the same
individuals (the samples are paired with each other) and the samples are not
independent of each other. A third alternative is that the samples can come from
different individuals who have been matched on a variable of interest; this type of
sample will not be independent. The following are assumptions necessary for this
two-sample test of means:

i. The sampled populations follow the normal distribution.

ii. The two samples are from independent populations.
iii. The standard deviations of the two populations are unknown but equal.

Research Objective 2 is to determine whether gender and age comes into the
role when understanding the ergonomics principles and their application. The
hypothesis for this section is as follow:
𝐻0 : 𝜇1 = 𝜇2
𝐻1 : 𝜇1 ≠ 𝜇2

Sample 1 is for male and sample 2 is for female workers. The result shows
that the p-value for this test is 0.152. To make the decision either to accept or reject
the null hypothesis, the significant value will be compared with the significant value
of 0.05 (α = 0.05). If the p-value is greater than α, then the decision is, fail to reject
the null hypothesis. For this dataset, the decision is fail to reject the null hypothesis
so the conclusion is there is no significant difference between gender in
understanding the ergonomics principles and application.

50
4.5.2 Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) Test

The ANOVA test is used to determine if the various sample means came
from a single population or populations with different means. The underlying
strategy is to assume that there are no differences in the population, that is, assume
that there is just one population. Then the population variance is estimated two ways
and the ratio of these two estimates is calculated. If the sample means come from
populations with the same mean, then the two methods for estimating the population
variance are the same and the F ratio will be about one (1). The F distribution tells
when the ratio is too much larger than 1 to have occurred by chance. ANOVA test
also being used to answer the objective number two for the age group differences in
in understanding the ergonomics principles and application. The hypothesis for this
section is as follow:

𝐻0 : 𝜇1 = 𝜇2 = 𝜇3 = 𝜇4
𝐻1 : 𝐴𝑡 𝑙𝑒𝑎𝑠𝑡 𝑜𝑛𝑒 𝑚𝑒𝑎𝑛 𝑖𝑠 𝑑𝑖𝑓𝑓𝑒𝑟𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑓𝑟𝑜𝑚 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑜𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑠.

In this research, there are four different group age of workers. The result
shows that the p-value is 0.373. The comparison with significant value of 0.05 can
be concluded that, there is enough evidence to accept the null hypothesis. If the null
hypothesis is accepted, this show that there are no significant different between age
group in understanding the ergonomics principles and application.

4.5.3 Pearson Correlation Analysis

Pearson correlation coefficient purpose is to measure linear relation between

two variables. The analysis of this method will illustrate the correlation strength and
the relationship of the variables, whether it is negative or positive. The strength
between two variables ranges between 0 and 1 and quantifies the direction and
strength between two variables.

Most of the statistical analysis use Pearson correlation to study the

correlation of the variables between the independent and dependent variable in this
study. This study implemented the Pearson correlation test to examine the
relationship between OHS training and knowledge about ergonomics of work at an
office workstation.

51
 This method able to determine whether the hypothesis rejected or accepted
for this study. In Table X below, show the result of the correlation between OHS
training and knowledge about ergonomics of work at an office workstation

TABLE 4.3 Correlation Result between OHS Training and Knowledge about
Ergonomics of Work at an Office Workstation

OHS Training
Significant, p Pearson Correlation, r
Knowledge on 0.135 0.192
Ergonomic

For overall value of the OHS training and knowledge about ergonomics of
work at an office workstation, Table 4.3 above shows that the result obtained from
the research is 0.192. The result based on the ranges of r-value, shows that it has
very weak positive relationship. This signifies that OHS training and knowledge
about ergonomics of work at an office workstation are positively associated since
the value is in the positive relationship value. The hypothesis is rejected from the p
value of 0.135 that is more than significant level at 0.05.

4.5.4 Linear Regression Analysis

The linear regression analysis is the method to be used in this research. This
method purpose is to predict the dependent variable based on the predictor
variables. It estimates the relationship between the dependent variable and the
independent variables. The formula of the linear regression is according to Prichard
and Barwick (2003) and as shown below:

Linear Regression formula

𝑌̂ = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑐

The Y in this formula is the dependent variable for this research, which is risk
behaviour. The changes in Y will be affected by the changes in the x when it is
increase or decrease. The m in the formula is the value from the independent
variable, which is safety climate that later on the value will be obtained from the
survey questionnaire result.

52
 The relationship of the OHS training and knowledge about ergonomics of
work at an office workstation is measured and by the calculation of the mx+ c. The
m are the independent variables and y is the dependent variables. Further, the m is
the slope of the line and c is the constant value, which is the y-intercept (value of Y
when x=0).
Table 4.4: R and R Square Value

R R Square

0.192 0.037

Table 4.5: Coefficients

Model Unstandardized Standardized t Sig.

Coefficients Coefficients
B Std. Error β, Beta
(Constant) 2.588 1.625 1.583 0.119
1
OHS Training 0.597 0.394 0.192 1.516 0.135

Linear Regression model

𝑌̂ = 0.597𝑥 + 2.588

The value of R (R= 0.192) in Table 4.4 indicates the R square value has a
0.037 or 3.7%. The R square purpose is to measure the OHS training are
insignificant and do not much influenced to the dependent variable. The percentage
value indicates the value of the data fitted around the regression line and
independent variables (Ergonomic Knowledge) is accounted for the 3.7% of the
variation in the OHS Training.

Based on Table 4.5, the result of the standardized coefficients for the OHS
Training is weak in relation to the Ergonomic Knowledge among the workers. The
value of the unstandardized coefficients of the beta is use for the linear regression
model to predict the risk behaviour. 0.597 is the slope for the safety climate and
2.588 that is the y-intercept. The linear regression model is for calculation to predict

53
the increase of Ergonomic Knowledge for this study based on the OHS Training
factors.

In order to predict the value of a variable depending on the value of the

independent variable, this research uses the linear regression method. The
prediction of the dependent variable able to be illustrated by calculation of x and y
from the formula model. The variable y is the dependent variable, which is the risk
behaviour and x is the independent variables, which is safety climate. The
estimation of value of y increase when the x increase whiles the c is the intercept.
This finding can be used to answer objective number four whether OHS training help
acquiring knowledge about ergonomics of work at an office workstation.

54
 CHAPTER 5

CONCLUSIONS

5.1 Recap of Major Findings

Analysis was done to the demographics data and the result is summarized in
figure 4.0. Based on the result, most of the respondents are male (54%), followed by
female (47.6%). Age range is between 30 – 39 years old (47.6%) followed by 40 – 49
years old (31.7%), and 20 – 29 years old (20.6%). Years of service, 1 – 5 years
(49.2%) followed by 5 – 10 years (30.2%), 10 – 15 years (12.7%) and 15 – 20 years
(4.8%). The highest formal education level they obtained mostly was degree
(Graduate 63.5%) followed by STPM/diploma (22.2%), Professionals (7.9%) and
SPM (6.3%).

Second analysis was done on the ergonomics application and

understandings with compiling all the data collected from the questionnaire
circulated. Referring to figure 4.1 it is conclude that most of the participants achieved
only 4 to 6 marks in average. 4 marks with (30.16%) followed by 5 marks (9.52%)
and 6 marks (17.46%). That means they are in the borderline and showing lack of
knowledge in safety ergonomic

For the ergonomics training, referred to figure 4.2 (76.3%) choose

ergonomics training needs to be conducted to assure ergonomics application and
skills adapted for the benefit of office employee. This is important to be studied since
Bromma management can choose whatever training regarding OSH and in this
situation, researcher can identify the seriousness of OSH trainings in considering
ergonomics as an important training besides to get Continuous Education Program
(CEP) point. The results on descriptive analysis have answered the research
objective 1 on the assessment of ergonomics principles and their application
understanding among office workers.

Research Objective 2 is to determine whether gender and age comes into

the role when understanding the ergonomics principles and their application. For this
research, the decision is fail to reject the null hypothesis so the conclusion is there is
no significant difference between gender in understanding the ergonomics principles

55
and application. ANOVA test also being used to answer the objective 2 for the age
group differences in understanding the ergonomics principles and application and
the result show that there are no significant different between age group in
understanding the ergonomics principles and application.

This study implemented the Pearson correlation test to examine the

relationship between OHS training and knowledge about ergonomics of work at an
office workstation as stated in objective 3. The result based on the ranges of R-
value, shows that it has very weak positive relationship. This signifies that OHS
training and knowledge about ergonomics of work at an office workstation are
positively associated since the value is in the positive relationship value. The
hypothesis is rejected from the p value of 0.135 that is more than significant level at
0.05.

The linear regression analysis is the method to be used in this research for
research objective 4. The R square value for this research is 0.037 or 3.7%. The R
square purpose is to measure the OHS training are insignificant and do not much
influenced to the dependent variable. The percentage value indicates the value of
the data fitted around the regression line and independent variables (Ergonomic
Knowledge) is accounted for the 3.7% of the variation in the OHS Training.

5.2 Implications of the Study

This study will create the guidance for Bromma Malaysia management, to
make a proper decision with confidence that, OHS trainings is undoubtedly the main
factor that will contribute the understanding and application of ergonomic practices for
all the office employees. As previously Bromma Malaysia management with limited
resources and information were not confident and has doubt making decision
whether OSH trainings is compulsory or not. Bromma Malaysia management has
the basis and reference that is proven by the feedback collected, analyzed and
tabulated data supporting this conclusion that, Bromma Malaysia management
should take the right action now to avoid major loss in productivity, quality and cost.
Therefore, Bromma Malaysia management shall be ready to design the right OSH
trainings with the help of safety officer in the firm.

56
5.3 Limitations of the Study

This study did not study the other potential motivational factor other than this
four as in the training system provided, the gender, age, application &
understandings and the necessary of OSH training.

5.4 Recommendations for Future Research

This research would recommend future research to take into considerations

to perform close group, and random interview to get more details via the qualitative
method, to get the understanding of their inner motivation and ideas on how
Bromma Malaysia management should improve as a whole, in terms of keeping the
employees with all the sufficient knowledge in the ergonomic practices among office
workers in Bromma Malaysia.

57
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59
APPENDICES

60
 Appendix A: Research Questionnaires

Questionnaire for Study on the ergonomic practices among office workers in

Bromma Malaysia.

Part I
Employees name:

Gender: Male ( ) Female ( )

Age:
A) 20 - 29 B) 30 -39 C) 40 - 49 D) 50 and above.

Years of service:
A) 1-5years B) 5-10years C) 10-15years D) 15-20years E) 20years & more

Education:
A) SPM B) STPM/Diploma C) Graduate D) Professional

61
Part II

Study on the ergonomic practices among office workers in Bromma Malaysia.

Please choose the answers base on your understandings. Each question correctly
answered will be given 1 mark.

1. What are the major ERGONOMICS risk factors?

High task repetition
Forceful exertions
Repetitive/sustained postures
All of the above

2. Which of the following can contribute to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Incorrect typing technique
Poor postures
Striking the keys too hard
All of the above

3. How often should you move and adjust your posture while working on your
computer or laptop?
Every 10 minutes
Around 30 minutes
After 45 minute
As soon as you get bored

62
4. Which part of the back should any office chair definitely support?
Mid-back
Shoulder blades
Lumbar region
All the parts in linear position

5. Tools can be a problem when they:

Are heavy
Require static work
Do not allow for neutral postures
Have handles that are too big/too small for workers hands
All the above

6. What is described in the picture below?

The incorrect posture to lift heavy objects

The correct postures to lift light objects
The correct postures to lift heavy objects
None of the above

63
7. What is the correct height of the keyboard? (From the top of the space bar
down to the top of the desk)
2”
3”
2.5”
2’5”

8. What should the top of the screen never be above?

Eye level
Head
Shoulder
Chair

9. If the keyboard is too high, but not adjustable, what should you do to fix
that?
Move the keyboard to a higher location
Place pads underneath the wrists
Move the keyboard to a lower place
Do the best they can with it

10. What are the benefits of ERGONOMICS?

Organizational cost saving
Increased productivity
Increased product quality
All of the above

64
Part III
Employee’s overview on the necessity of having periodic safety and ergonomic
trainings.

Please answer the question in the Likert scale below (1= Strongly disagree, 2=
Disagree, 3= Neutral, 4= Agree, 5= Strongly Agree)

Please give your suggestion whether periodic Safety 1 2 3 4 5

and Ergonomic training for office workspace is
necessary to be conducted for the benefit of office
employees.

Do you agree that OHS training would shape up the 1 2 3 4 5

way of worker's attitude or behavior so that he or
she will practice safety ergonomics in office
environments?

Do you believe that periodic OHS training would 1 2 3 4 5

prevent the absence of ergonomic practices in-office
employees daily work life

65
 Appendix B: SPSS Output

Descriptive Statistics

N Minimum Maximum Mean Std. Deviation

Gender 62 1.00 2.00 1.4677 .50303

Age 62 1.00 3.00 2.1290 .71251
Years of Service 62 1.00 5.00 1.8387 1.04322
Education 62 1.00 4.00 2.7258 .70523
Valid N (listwise) 62

Descriptive Statistics

N Minimum Maximum Mean Std. Deviation

What are the major 62 1.00 4.00 3.3548 .92500

ERGONOMICS risk
factors?
Which of the following can 62 1.00 4.00 2.8548 1.21259
contribute to Carpal Tunnel
Syndrome?
How often should you move 62 1.00 4.00 2.1129 .88900
and adjust your posture
while working on your
computer or laptop?
Which part of the back 62 1.00 4.00 3.1290 .98320
should any office chair
definitely support?
Tools can be a problem 62 1.00 5.00 4.0645 1.46959
when they:
What is described in the 62 1.00 3.00 2.1452 .62323
picture below?
What is the correct height of 62 1.00 3.00 1.7742 .81822
the keyboard? (From the
top of the space bar down
to the top of the desk)
What should the top of the 62 1.00 4.00 1.5000 .82482
screen never be above?
If the keyboard is too high, 62 1.00 4.00 3.5484 .66966
but not adjustable, what
should you do to fix that?
What are the benefits of 62 1.00 4.00 3.2258 1.04676
ERGONOMICS?
Valid N (listwise) 62

66
Please give your suggestion whether periodic Safety and Ergonomic training for
office workspace is necessary to be conducted for the benefit of office
employees.

Frequency Percent Valid Percent Cumulative

Percent

Neutral 12 19.4 19.4 19.4

Agree 24 38.7 38.7 58.1

Valid
Strongly Agree 26 41.9 41.9 100.0

Total 62 100.0 100.0

Do you agree that OHS training would shape up the way of worker's attitude or
behavior so that he or she will practice safety ergonomics in office
environments?

Frequency Percent Valid Percent Cumulative

Percent

Neutral 16 25.8 25.8 25.8

Agree 28 45.2 45.2 71.0

Valid
Strongly Agree 18 29.0 29.0 100.0

Total 62 100.0 100.0

Do you believe that periodic OHS training would prevent the absence of
ergonomic practices in-office employees daily work life

Frequency Percent Valid Percent Cumulative

Percent

Disagree 1 1.6 1.6 1.6

Neutral 15 24.2 24.2 25.8

Valid Agree 28 45.2 45.2 71.0

Strongly Agree 18 29.0 29.0 100.0

Total 62 100.0 100.0

67
 Score on Knowledge of Ergonomics

Frequency Percent Valid Percent Cumulative

Percent

.00 1 1.6 1.6 1.6

1.00 1 1.6 1.6 3.2

2.00 4 6.5 6.5 9.7

3.00 6 9.7 9.7 19.4

4.00 19 30.6 30.6 50.0

5.00 6 9.7 9.7 59.7

Valid
6.00 11 17.7 17.7 77.4

7.00 5 8.1 8.1 85.5

8.00 5 8.1 8.1 93.5

9.00 2 3.2 3.2 96.8

10.00 2 3.2 3.2 100.0

Total 62 100.0 100.0

Independent Samples Test

Levene's Test t-test for Equality of Means

for Equality of
Variances

F Sig. t df Sig. Mean Std. 95% Confidence

(2- Differe Error Interval of the
tailed) nce Differe Difference
nce Lower Upper

Equal .352 .555 - 60 .152 - .53844 - .29544

Score on variances 1.45 .78161 1.8586
Knowledge assumed 2 6
of Equal - 59.9 .148 - .53363 - .28582
Ergonomics variances not 1.46 98 .78161 1.8490
assumed 5 3

68
 ANOVA
Score on Knowledge of Ergonomics

Sum of Squares df Mean Square F Sig.

Between Groups 9.135 2 4.568 1.003 .373

Within Groups 268.800 59 4.556
Total 277.935 61

Correlations

Score on OHS Training

Knowledge of
Ergonomics

Pearson Correlation 1 .192

Score on Knowledge of
Sig. (2-tailed) .135
Ergonomics
N 62 62
Pearson Correlation .192 1

OHS Training Sig. (2-tailed) .135

N 62 62

Regression

Variables Entered/Removed

Model Variables Entered Variables Method

Removed

1 OHS Training . Enter

a. Dependent Variable: Score on Knowledge of Ergonomics

b. All requested variables entered.

69
 Model Summary

Model R R Square Adjusted R Std. Error of the

Square Estimate
a
1 .192 .037 .021 2.11222

a. Predictors: (Constant), OHS Training

ANOVA

Model Sum of df Mean Square F Sig.

Squares
b
Regression 10.247 1 10.247 2.297 .135

1 Residual 267.688 60 4.461

Total 277.935 61

a. Dependent Variable: Score on Knowledge of Ergonomics

b. Predictors: (Constant), OHS Training

Coefficients

Model Unstandardized Coefficients Standardized t Sig.

Coefficients

B Std. Error Beta

(Constant) 2.588 1.635 1.583 .119

1
OHS Training .597 .394 .192 1.516 .135

a. Dependent Variable: Score on Knowledge of Ergonomics

70
 APPROVAL PAGE

TITLE OF PROJECT PAPER: A STUDY ON THE ERGONOMIC PRACTICE

AMONG OFFICE WORKERS IN BROMMA
MALAYSIA

NAME OF AUTHOR: MURUGESWARAN KOOTHA PERUMAL

The undersigned certify that the above candidate has fulfilled the condition of the
project paper prepared in partial fulfillment for the degree of Master of Business
Administration.

SUPERVISOR
Signature : _______________________
Name :
Date :

ENDORSED BY:

______________________________
Dean
Graduate School of Business
Date:

71