Perception of RSI/WMSD risks involved in teleworking among employees at a public university

Abstract

Introduction: Although teleworking emerged decades before the COVID-19 pandemic, the spread of the virus in 2020 resulted in faster and more widespread implementation of this work format. However, the lack of a dedicated workspace may pose ergonomic risks and increase the incidence of musculoskeletal disorders. Objective: Understand the risks of repetitive strain injury (RSI) and work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) in teleworking from the perspective of employees at a public university. Methods: A list of employees at a public university who were full or part-time teleworkers was obtained from the campus Personnel Department and used to select subjects for individual scripted interviews. The interviews were recorded and transcribed for thematic content analysis. Results: Eight employees took part in the interviews, most of whom were women, aged between 33 and 64 years and from different professional categories. The interviewees reported ergonomic deficiencies, musculoskeletal symptoms, using individual preventive strategies, and the advantages of teleworking, among others. Conclusion: There are still ergonomic-related risks of RSI/WRMDs, and despite changes made during the COVID-19 pandemic, it remains important to comply with preventive needs and improve knowledge management among workers.