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The study explored the role of workplace ergonomics on healthcare employees’
performance using the Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH) as a case study. The
specific objectives of this study were to determine the extent to which workplace
ergonomics influence healthcare employees’ performance at the workplace, to
examine healthcare employees’ awareness about ergonomics design of the
workplaces, to document the barriers towards ergonomic design of workplaces as a
tool for improving employees’ performance in healthcare facilities, the case of MNH.
The study employed case study research design where both qualitative and
quantitative data were collected by distributing questionnaires to 96 staff at MNH.
This included clinical staff, non – clinical staff, nursing staff and management. In
addition, the interview method was also used to complement the data that was
collected through questionnaires especially those that required more qualitative data.
The findings of the study revealed that office size, workplace temperature, airflow and
light, office furniture, workplace environment and level of noise all affect employee’s
performance. Also it was found that 36% of all the respondents were aware about the
workplace ergonomics issues. Lastly, budgetary constraints, technological factors and
old design of the hospital were ranked as the top barriers towards ergonomics design
at MNH. This implies that healthcare facilities need to consider and improve
workplace ergonomics as a tool for improving healthcare employees’ performance.
Furthermore, there is a need to take initiatives for improvement of awareness on
workplace ergonomics in the healthcare facilities.
The study therefore recommends more training on workplace ergonomics aimed at
boosting up employee’s awareness. Also, healthcare facilities need to invest in
technology advancements as well as allocation of more financial resources for
improvement of workplace ergonomics. The study also recommends that healthcare
facilities should be designed in ways that support workplace ergonomics. |
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