Effect of an ergonomics educational program on work related musculoskeletal disorders: A cluster randomised control trial.

This trial will utilise ergonomic education. RESPite is an online targeted ergonomics educational intervention for sonographers. It is expected it will require 30 mins to complete. This education was designed by sonographers, ergonomists and physiotherapists. There are six modules. The first module is information about work related musculoskeletal disease (WMSD) in sonographers and contains a short quiz. Module two is information on risk factors for WMSD in sonographers. Modules three, four and five contain short videos with recommended strategies for sonographers to reduce reach, reduce probe pressure and grip force and to reduce neck and trunk rotation. The final module is a conclusion with reinforcement of the strategies. The intervention can be accessed online and as many times as the participant wants to. it will be available for three months after completion of the trial. A copy of the Australasian Sonographers Association (ASA) and The Australasian Society for Ultrasound in Medicine (ASUM) joint guidelines for reducing injuries to all ultrasound users will also be delivered by email as part of the intervention. Participants are encouraged to implement the tips given in the training into their everyday practice as a sonographer. Intervention adherence will be assessed by a research completion survey at the completion of the trial.