Anthropomorphic Investigation into Improved Furniture Fabrication and Fitting for Students in a Bangladeshi University

Mismatches between furniture dimensions and student anthropometry can cause discomfort, irritation, and different Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs). This study has two important purposes. One is to survey university student’s anthropometric measurements. Other is to identify the level of mismatch or match between the library furniture dimensions and student anthropometry. A total of 550 university students were selected as participants in this study. Eleven body measurements were collected using a standard anthropometer, whereas thirteen dimensions of library furniture were taken using an inextensible tape and then compared together. All anthropometric characteristics were larger for male participants than female participants except for Hip Breadth. Moreover, substantial levels of mismatches were identified in most of the library furniture dimensions such as Seat Height, Seat Width, Seat Depth, Seat to Table Height, and so on. The dimensions of library furniture were not suitable for a large number of students. Therefore, a correct sitting posture of the student is not attained by the existing furniture; consequently, there might be a probability of experiencing MSD problems using existing library furniture among the students. To minimize mismatches and MSD problems, the dimensions of library furniture should consider student's anthropometry.