ERGONOMICS Image courtesy of mkprosopsis.com 11/13

What is ERGONOMICS? Definition: er·go·nom·ics (ûr'gə-nŏm'ĭks): an applied science concerned with designing and arranging things people use so that the people and things interact most efficiently and safely. Goal of Ergonomics: Identify tasks that create unhealthy stress on your body. Prevent injuries by adjusting the way you perform your job.

Defining ERGONOMICS The most simple definition is: “Fitting the job to the worker”. The practice of adapting products and processes to human characteristics and capabilities in order to improve people’s well- being and optimize productivity. We must understand: What tasks are being performed Who is performing the tasks What is being used to perform the tasks

Components of a Work Station Chair Seat Height, Seat Angle, Seat Depth, Backrest Height, Backrest Angle, Armrests Work surface Primary, Secondary & Reference Zone Keyboard/Mouse Monitor Distance, Height, Location & Angle Telephone Environment Lighting, Air Quality, Temperature, Space & Noise Accessories Document Holders, Footrests, Keyboard Trays & Glare Screens

Why do we HURT?? Most common factors: Poor posture Lack of movement As employees of the University, it is important that you take responsibility for yourself. If you notice something set-up wrong in your workstation or are feeling pain or discomfort due to working, you need to report it to the Safety Office right away!

Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) What are MSDs? Serious injuries caused by excessive or repetitive physical demands placed on your body over long periods of time. MSDs can affect any body part that is placed under excessive or repetitive amounts of stress.

How serious are MSDs in the workplace? MSDs are the most common workplace injury. Image courtesy of whsm.com Serious injuries caused by excessive or repetitive physical demands placed on your body over long periods of time. MSDs can affect any body part that is placed under excessive or repetitive amounts of stress. 1 out of every 3 MSDs are serious enough to result in lost time from work.

Carpal tunnel syndrome Trigger finger Tendonitis Herniated spinal disc Common MSDs Raynaud’s syndrome Carpal tunnel syndrome Trigger finger Tendonitis Herniated spinal disc

Warning Signs and Symptoms of MSDs Weakened grip strength Decreased range of motion Loss of muscle function Symptoms Pain Numbness Stiffness Burning or tingling Image courtesy of stackful-dev.com

When should I report my symptoms? When in doubt, report your symptoms to the VCSU Safety Office- especially if: Pain is severe Pain becomes worse over time Symptoms include numbness or tingling Your injury keeps you up at night File an “Initial Incident Report” and make an appointment to see your DMP. Report any MSD risks and recommendations to the VCSU Safety Office.

Common Causes of MSDs Heavy lifting Tight/strong gripping Moving heavy objects can damage your spine or strain muscles. Tight/strong gripping Tight gripping can strain the muscles and tendons in your hands. Repeated motions If you do not let your body rest, any repeated motion can cause MSDs. Awkward positions Examples: working with your hands over your head, bending your neck or back, kneeling or squatting. Vibration Use of power tools can damage blood vessels in your arms and hands. Contact Stress Working with tools can cause contact stress. Examples: pliers that are not padded and tools with finger grooves.

How can I prevent MSDs? Look for alternate ways of lifting Increase your grip strength Take control over motions and how often you make them Make simple equipment adjustments Taking precautions to reduce vibrations Wearing proper clothing (padded gloves)

ERGONOMIC Exercises ERGOCISING! There is software available to download on your computer that you can set-up for a “Stretching Reminder” every 15, 30, 45, or 60 minutes. These exercises give you a break & reduce pain based on your specific ailment. You can find the software at http://ergocise.com.

Summary ERGONOMIC practices can help to reduce workplace injury, but cannot be effective working alone. You need to take personal responsibility and protect yourself while on the job! Image courtesy of University of Wisconsin

Contact the VCSU Safety Office: Questions or Concerns? Contact the VCSU Safety Office: 701-845-7710 OR Email safety@vcsu.edu