OFFICE ERGONOMICS Safety Tips

UNDERSTANDING THE HAZARD A number of hazards have been associated with working at computer workstations, including: Back and upper limb disorders caused by bad posture or unsuitable seating Sitting in a stooped posture causes tremendous strain on the spine. This can lead to pain and long term injury.

RESPONSIBILITY You and your employer are responsible for making sure your work area is arranged in a safe manner.

WORK STATION SETUP GUIDELINES Monitor at or below eye level

WORK STATION SETUP GUIDELINES Wrist straight Forearms supported Back supported Forearms parallel to the floor Thighs parallel to the floor

Feet on the floor or on a foot rest

Clutter under the desk may lead you to sit awkwardly Keep electrical cables tidy to reduce fire hazards and the chances of tripping. If you use any files regularly, keep them where they can be accessed without twisting or overreaching.

Avoid twisting or reaching while seated Avoid twisting or reaching while seated. If necessary, re-locate frequently used items such as papers or files.

WORKING SURFACE HEIGHT 3 to 4 inches lower than the average desk Elbow make 90 to 110 degrees Forearms should be supported minimum of 6 inches

YOUR CHAIR Chair should be adjusted to support your body Adjust height so that fore arms are parallel to the floor Both feet should rest on the floor Back support the lower back Back of knees to edge of chair is 2 to 3 fingers

MONITOR POSITION Monitor should be directly in front Top of monitor is level or slightly below eye height If wearing bifocals or trifocal glasses, a lower position is required.

MONITOR POSITION The monitor should be 18 to 28 inches from eyes. (arms length away)

CHANGE POSITION Slight position changes will vary the muscles that are required to hold static posture.

STRETCHING BREAKS Neck Hands Upper Back and Shoulders Lower Back Eyes Legs

That’s all folks! Thank you! More safety tips at: http://www.safetymanscorner.com