MUNCIE, Ind. -- The number of computer-use injuries is increasing, but few employers implement preventative measures at the work station until problems arise, says a Ball State University study.

In 1993, Fortune 500 firms budgeted more money on workers’ compensation than on dividend payments to shareholders, new product development and training. Estimates are that by the start of the next century, repetitive stress injuries may account for half of the total workers’ compensation.

"Computer ergonomics is a serious issue in business today and should be a major concern for both employees and employers," said Melody Alexander, a professor of business education and office administration.

The Ball State study found that employers and employees have vastly different perceptions about the growing problem.

Participants in Alexander’s study included 392 office employees and 279 office employers. The employees were female, and the majority were between the ages of 30 and 60 with an average of 16 years spent working in an office environment. About 60 percent had taken some college courses or held associate’s degrees.

About 56 percent of the companies were located in metro areas and had been in operation for 40 or more years. Over half of the employers had 51 or more total employees and 80 percent reporting had only five or few office support employees.

The study found:

• Almost two-thirds of office employees had experienced physical problems related to computer use.
• Most employees believe that visual problems were just as serious as other computer related problems, most office lighting is not favorable for working with computers and that many computer-related injuries require medical attention.
• Employees reported that they didn’t believe companies consider it important to take measures to prevent computer-related injuries.
• Employers said it was the employee’s responsibility to practice computer safety precautions.
• Employers do not believe that computer-related injuries are a serious issue in business.

Alexander urges both employees and employers to work together to reduce computer-use injuries. Proper office lighting, required employee breaks, and visual problems are three areas that could easily be addressed.

"Employees must be aware that their perceptions are different from their employers," she said. "At the same time, employers need to communicate with employees, discuss the ergonomic issues and determine solutions."

(NOTE TO EDITORS: For more information, contact Alexander by E-mail at 03maalexande@bsu.edu or by phone at (765) 285-5239.)