Abstract

This study investigates the effect of sitting posture on the back health of students involved in remote work. Jack^® human simulation software was employed to measure the impact of different seated postures on the lower back region, specifically the lumbar spine. The analysis focused on common positions adopted during extended work periods: neutral (Posture 1), flexion (Posture 2) and extension (Posture 3). Three tests were conducted in the simulated environment to predict the forces exerted on the musculoskeletal system, which are Lower back analysis (LBA), Comfort Analysis, and Ovako Working Posture Analysis System (OWAS). The results revealed that Posture 2 exhibited the highest compression force and is the least comfortable in terms of joint angles compared to the other postures while posture 3 is the least comfortable in terms of body parts. Furthermore, the musculoskeletal loading associated with working in postures 2 and 3 does not reach excessive levels, however it is required to provide ergonomic improvements. This paper also proposes strategies to enhance the working postures of university students.