ERGONOMICS 101 An Overview

Somewhere, Something Went Terribly Wrong Gary Larson’s “The Far Side”, Copyright 1986 Universal Press Syndicate

What is it? Ergonomics is the study of how the physical health of workers is affected by their workplace. Ergonomics is concerned with such factors as the physical design of the computer workstation such as the keyboard, screens, and mouse.

What are RSI’s? Definition Symptoms Repetitive Stress Injuries (RSI) are also known as Cumulative Trauma Disorders (CTS), which is an injury that is the result of stress put on your body when performing repetitive tasks. Symptoms Pain, numbness, tingling and loss of muscle control and coordination Pain felt in wrists, neck, shoulders and upper back Eye strain, headaches, tiredness, allergies, backaches, poor circulation

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome? CTS occurs when a nerve in the wrist is used over and over with the wrong equipment, causing stress in the nerves and tissues in the wrists. Wrist is unable to move properly, and the person suffers a great deal of pain, usually requiring surgery to correct. Can be prevented by using a wrist support and keeping your wrist in the correct position.

TIPS FOR AN ERGONOMIC WORKSTATION Monitor Top of screen should be at eye level Tilt monitor slightly upward Should be 45cm to 60cm from face Should be cleaned often Shelter your monitor from light sources that produce flare Adjust your monitor’s brightness, contrast and font size until they feel comfortable for you

TIPS FOR AN ERGONOMIC WORKSTATION Keyboard Should be kept at elbow height Fingers should land on “home row” at a 90 degree angle Keep shoulders relaxed, and elbows at side When typing, center your keyboard in front of you alongside your mouse. Don’t use wrist rests or armrests while typing-only while resting. Avoid bending your wrist up, down, or to the sides

TIPS FOR AN ERGONOMIC WORKSTATION Mouse Keep mouse close to keyboard Use elbow, not wrist, to move mouse Keep wrists in a straight or “neutral” position Use light grip Desk Have enough room around you and under the desk Medium to light coloured surface to reduce glare

TIPS FOR AN ERGONOMIC WORKSTATION Chair Height – thighs should be roughly parallel to floor Choose a chair with good back support Recline slightly and sit back in chair Use a foot rest if your feet don’t rest comfortably on the floor Move around!

Ergonomics – The Cheap Way! Temperature of the workplace should be kept between 15°C and 22°C. Provide plenty of air circulation, but not drafts from open windows. This reduce amount of dust and bacteria in the air. Background lighting should be low or glare free, and should be suitable for your task Cleanliness avoids the development of allergies from exposure to dust, mold and particles.

How do Employers Benefit? Employees are much happier Healthy employees have fewer sick days Good working relationships Productivity is increased Employees less chance of quitting

How do Employees Benefit? Prevents injuries from occurring Healthier working conditions, improve the mood of the employee Miss fewer days, and avoid losing pay