The purpose of this study was to evaluate home computing workstations of an
identified population to identify potential situations that could result in ergonomic issues.
The use of a PC in the home could contribute to the probability of developing CTDs or
CVS. To achieve this purpose, various objectives were developed that identified the
characteristics of home computing workstations, identified and assessed the extent of
potential ergonomic issue(s) for the individual(s) operating the PC at home, and
compared the characteristics of home computing workstations with overall best practices
of computing workstations. The tools used to evaluate the home computing workstations
included an ergonomic survey, RULA assessment and ergonomic instrumentation. The
researcher was able to identify potential situations that could result in ergonomic issues
based on PC workstations in the home. It appears that home computing workstations have
the potential to lead to ergonomic issues consistent with those identified within an office
work environment. The most significant characteristic of home PC workstations that was
identified was the lack of an adjustable desk or workstation. The participants also
experienced discomfort in the hands, eyes, back and shoulders while operating the PC in
the home. With the results of this study, best practice of overall PC workstations were
identified and recommended to reduce the potential development of CTDs or CVS by use
of a PC in the home.