ERGONOMICALLY DESIGNED WORKSPACES, INSTITUTIONAL COMMITMENT AND SECRETARIES WELLBEING IN DELTA STATE TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS
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This research investigated Ergonomically designed workspaces, institutional Commitment and Secretaries well-being in Delta State tertiary institutions. Descriptive survey design was used to survey 110 professional secretaries across six universities, three colleges, and three polytechnics. A structured questionnaire with a 5-point Likert scale was used to collect data. The instrument was validated by three experts. Test-Retest was conducted and PPMC yielded r = 0.81, p < .05. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics and the Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC) to examine relationships between the variables. The findings revealed that secretaries perceived their workspaces as inadequately designed ergonomically, with issues like uncomfortable chairs, poor lighting, and limited access to ergonomic accessories. Secretaries reported that poor ergonomic conditions negatively affect their health, leading to discomfort, fatigue, and stress. Conversely, they also reported that engaging in ergonomic practices like taking breaks and stretching helps reduce discomfort. The study found a strong positive correlation between perceived ergonomic workspace and management’s attention to ergonomic issues, meaning that the secretaries see ergonomic environment as supportive. A major recommendation from the study is that institutions should develop clear policies and allocate resources specifically for ergonomic improvements. Regular training sessions and routine assessments are also vital to enhancing secretaries’ health and performance.
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