Proposed Topics

Topic 1: Application of Ergonomics to Analyze the Environmental factors of Offices in

UST
- Environmental factors such as illumination, ventilation, temperature, noise, vibration and
space. We can also include the seat and desk design and measurement.
- We will measure the environmental factors using the respective tools for each. Then
compare them to the standards/requirements for an office setting and to check if they
are complying with the standards.
- These environmental factors affects productivity/work performance, job satisfaction,
behaviour and health of employees. Survey the employees regarding their level of
concentration, comfort, satisfaction, well-being and work performance.
- Recommend solutions based on the results to comply with the standards and to help
build a healthy work environment for the employees.

Topic 2: Comparative study of particle board: Particleboard made from Wood chips and a
synthetic resin as binder vs. Particleboard made from Mango Seed husks and plastics as
binders

- A collaboration with UST Chemical engineering students (this product already has
scientific study)
- Commercial particle boards utilize wood chips as the main raw material for production.
Trees need to be cut to obtain these wood chips.
- In the Philippines, mango is abundant and considered as the national fruit. Upon
consumption, the skin and the fibrous seed remain. The outer seed is the fibrous husk
which is not needed for seed germination and the inner seed is the main seed which
grows upon planting. Mango seed husks will be used as an alternative for wood chips
and plastics for binders.
- Compare the two particle board in terms of cost, durability, ease of manufacture,
strength, etc.
- Use of t-test

Topic 3: Factors Affecting Students Performance

- Different factors such as attendance in class, family income, and study hours per day,
etc. will be asked in the survey questionnaire in order for the researchers to find out and
quantify the relationship between those variables and the students performance.
 Statistical techniques including regression (i.e. multiple regression, simple linear
regression) analysis will used as a methodology.

Topic 4: Determining the Ergonomic Factors which Affect the Health, Comfort, and
Efficiency of Elevator Operators around UST
- This study aims to assess ergonomic problems (i.e. ventilation, lighting, sound, etc.)
which affect the elevator operators health, comfort, and efficiency. Data will be
collected through survey. Analysis and recommendations will be done by applying the
ergonomic theories and principles that we learned during the past year to improve their
workplace environment.

Topic 5: Comparison of Ergonomic Test Scores Between the Standing or Sitting Posture
of Office Workers
- The purpose of this study is to measure the safeness of the workers posture at work. At
the end of the study, we will be able to recommend physical improvement after
examining working postures.

Topic 6: A study on the Effect of Left-Handed Chairs on Left-Handed Students of the

Roque Ruao Building
- This study aims to measure the productivity and convenience of left-handed students in
using ergonomically designed left-handed chairs. At the end of the study, we will be able
to determine the difference of productivity and convenience of left-handed students
when using left-handed chairs over the normal arm chairs used during classes.

Topic 7: Determining the factors that triggers musculoskeletal pain of students in

carrying their heavy backpacks or Musculoskeletal pain induced in students for carrying
their heavy backpacks
- The purpose of this study was to determine the factors that can result on
musculoskeletal problems from carrying backpacks using ergonomic principles
- Scientific studies have not yet been performed to show that backpacks cause permanent
back damage.
- In one study, musculoskeletal symptoms were reported by 77.1% of students

Topic 8: Environmental Stressors that can affect workers and customers in stalls at UST
car park or Ergonomics for small businesses in UST
- The purpose of this study was to assess the importance of ergonomics in small
businesses.
- To evaluate different environmental stressors that can affect workers' productivity and
customers' satisfaction.