1. It is . . . fitting the work to the worker
What is Ergonomics?
It is fitting the work to the worker
Ergon = Greek for “work”
Nomos = Greek for “laws of”
The Study of Work
Applies both on and off the job

2. Benefits of Ergonomics
Decreased injury risk
Increased productivity
Decreased mistakes/rework
Increased efficiency
Decreased lost work days
Decreased turnover
Improved morale

3. Ergonomic Risk Factors
Repetition
Awkward posture
Forceful exertion
Static posture
Mechanical contact
Stress
Temperature
Vibration

4. Ergonomic Controls Engineering Administrative Work Practices
Modify the tool or work area design
Administrative
Don’t do one thing too long
Work Practices
Use the right tool

5. Computer Workstation (Cornell University)
Use a good chair with a dynamic chair back and sit back in this
Top of monitor casing 2-3" (5-8 cm) above eye level 
No glare on screen, use an optical glass anti-glare filter where needed
Sit at arms length from monitor
Feet on floor or stable footrest 
Use a document holder, preferably in-line with the computer screen
Wrists flat and straight in relation to forearms to use keyboard/mouse/input device
Arms and elbows relaxed close to body 
Center monitor and keyboard in front of you 
Use a negative tilt keyboard tray  with an upper mouse platform or downward tilt able platform adjacent to keyboard
Use a stable work surface and stable (no bounce) keyboard tray
Take frequent short breaks (microbreaks)
            12 tips for an Ergonomic
Computer Workstation
(Cornell University)

6. Tilt the work surface instead of the wrist.
Stand with weight evenly distributed between feet. When standing for long periods of time, rest one foot on a sturdy object above floor height and switch legs periodically

7. Keep elbows close to the body.
Reduce the need for outstretched arms. Use a higher work surface.

8. Avoid bending over your work.
Avoid overhead work. Use a ladder.

9. Bend the tool, not the wrist.
Use tools that distribute pressure evenly across the palm.

10. Squatting
Better . .
Use tools or extensions that allow you to stand upright

11. Better . . Highly repetitive motion
Use properly designed ergonomic tools
Vary your motions
Rotate to other tasks

12. Using the knee/hand as
a hammer
Better . .
Use a mallet
Use a tool

13. Better . . Moderate to High Hand - Arm Vibration
Use low vibration tools if available
Maintain tools
Use anti-vibration gloves or tool wraps
Take frequent pauses
Stretch your hands and arms

14. Lifting Size up the load If too heavy for one person, get help!
Lift together or use mechanical assistance

15. Lifting Safely

16. Unsafe Lifting Techniques

17. Pushing and pulling
Has potential for straining arm, shoulder and neck muscles
Use your legs and tighten abdominal muscles

18. Work Smarter – Not Harder
Notice and report symptoms EARLY
Stretch
Take adequate and frequent breathers
Do a different task or do the
task differently