Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate working conditions using multi display VDTs in terms of work performance, head movement and EMG activities of the neck. A comparative study using single, multi and large display type VDT workstations, was undertaken to obtain ergonomic data applicable to the guidelines and recommendation for VDT operations using multi displays. Subjects comprised 10 healthy volunteers who performed data search and entry tasks for 5min on each workstation. Work efficiency of the single display was inferior compared to multi and large displays. Head movement was greater with multi and large displays than with a single display. EMG activities did not differ significantly between multi and large displays.
The characteristics of a multi display type VDT work is increased efficiency by dividing software into 2 displays. Workload, sense of incongruity, skills required for operation and other possible problems must be examined before spreading this approach becomes widespread in workplaces.
