| Most mainstream ergonomics scholars concur that interventions work in eliminating the etiology and minimizing the exacerbation of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSD). Many advocate for participatory ergonomics (PE) as the preferred method of engaging employees in the intervention process. Currently, there is a paucity of research on the effectiveness of PE engagement processes. This study explored the efficacy of one PE engagement practice---referral method (self or mandated). The study examined the influence of referral method, psychosocial, and demographic factors on intervention outcome variables: engagement, intervention implementation, strains, workers' compensation claims, workstation satisfaction, and overall job satisfaction.;Data came from two sources: (a) archival records from 714 public sector office workers and (b) a new instrument used to collect data from 387 workers who comprised a convenience sample. The study reported two new findings: (a) referral method does not influence ergonomics interventions and (b) self-referred participants file fewer post-assessment workers' compensation claims. The study also confirmed three prior results: (a) there is a prevalence of WRMSD reporting by women (Armstrong et al., 1993; Hales et al., 1994; Noak-Cooper et al., 2009), (b) socioeconomic status reflected by educational level is less of a factor on WRMSD outcomes than psychosocial factors (Gillen et al., 2007), and (c) psychosocial factors are essential in managing employee safety (de Lange et al., 2003; Goodman et al., 2005). This dissertation study's findings, in the King County context in which it was conducted, underscores the agency's equity and social justice policies that ". . . do not favor one group over the other" (Joines & Sommerich, 2001, p. 334). |
