Ergonomic Challenges across Generations in Remote Workspaces

Remote work presents new ergonomic challenges with potential implications for musculoskeletal health and workstation safety. This research investigates generational differences in ergonomic risk exposure, workstation setup, and self-reported musculoskeletal pain among remote office workers. A cross-sectional design was employed, collecting data from 76 participants (31 from Generation X and 45 from Generation Y) through self-reported questionnaires and expert workstation assessments. Thematic analysis revealed three key patterns: differing generational approaches to ergonomic self-management, the influence of employer involvement in workstation setup, and mismatches between perceived and actual ergonomic risks. These findings suggest that ergonomic behaviors are shaped by generational attitudes toward health autonomy and technology use, rather than age alone. Generation-specific ergonomic interventions are recommended to support musculoskeletal health and promote safe work practices in remote work environments.