Authors: Associate Professor Rajesh Kumar Jhaa, Assistant Professor Balu Maloth, Asib Ekramul Molla, Hridya Shabu, Aadhil Mohammed
Abstract: This study evaluates the ergonomic conditions of the library in an academic institution, focusing on workstation design, user posture, and environmental factors. Academic libraries involve prolonged activities such as reading, writing, and computer use, which increase the risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD). The goal of this study is to find ergonomic risk factors and suggest design changes that will help. A mixed-method approach was utilized, encompassing observational analysis, a questionnaire survey, and posture assessment employing RULA and REBA tools. The findings reveal that a majority of users experience discomfort in the neck, lower back, shoulders, and eyes due to non-adjustable furniture, improper desk height, and inadequate lighting conditions. The RULA and REBA scores indicate moderate to high ergonomic risk levels. The study concludes that ergonomic interventions such as adjustable furniture, improved lighting systems, and user awareness can significantly enhance comfort, reduce health risks, and improve productivity in academic library environments.
