Evaluación ergonómica en intérpretes de lengua de señas Colombiana estrategias en la prevención de trastornos musculoesqueléticos

Abstract

Research and studies show that sign language interpreters face high occupational risks, both biomechanical and psychosocial, due to prolonged, awkward postures and repetitive movements inherent to their work. At a psychosocial level, the need to adapt to different speech rhythms and the tension of communicative situations impose a considerable mental load. This combination of physical and cognitive factors increases the likelihood of developing musculoskeletal injuries. For these reasons, a descriptive and experimental ergonomic study was conducted with twelve workers from the "Hands and Thought" project. The research was based on the application of two standardized assessments designed to determine occupational risks. The Occupational Repetitive Action Assessment (OCRA) measured the postures adopted while executing manual signs in eight in-person classes, and the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) measured angles in 10 postures selected from the Colombian Sign Language Dictionary. The results of this study provided insight into the daily work of Colombian Sign Language interpreters within an educational context. It was identified that this population is at risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders, such as tendinitis and rheumatoid arthritis, in the long term. This is due to the repetitive nature of the movements, the short recovery times during work, and the lack of health promotion in the workplace.