Personality characteristics of VDT operators and computer-related work conditions

The complex relation between psychological characteristics of Video Display Terminals (VDT) operators, perceived health status, job demands, and objec tive ergonomic features were examined. On a sample of 44 VDT operators (mea n age: 40.2 years) a questionnaire on health problems, psychological distur bances and occupational stress factors was administered. Ergonomic analysis of equipment and workstation was carried out. Psychological testing includ ed short term memory, visual discrimination and Eysenck Personality Questio nnaire. The obtained results showed that complaints concerning health statu s in all subjects are significantly related to the dimension of Neuroticism in the EPQ. Moreover, psychological characteristics, job task related feat ures and objective ergonomic conditions all contribute to the perceived lev els of job stress and health complaints. A significant predictor of the hea lth status in women was predominantly the dimension Neuroticism while in me n the only significant predictor was "ergonomic conditions".