Tips for Ergonomics in the Workplace

The process or science of proper work place ergonomics involves setting up a workplace in order to benefit a person’s functional health and productivity. This is done using specific ergonomic designs that prevent the use of the same muscles over and over again. Since the repetitive use of the same muscles can cause strain and injury, avoidance of that allows for an improvement in functionality or productivity, along with the need for less medical interventions and use of sick days.

There are many suggestions on how to develop a proper work area. By looking at each separate part of a work space, an ergonomic setting is not difficult to achieve. The following are some tips on how to get started on work ergonomics.

1. The overall work space should allow for movement. By sitting in one position for too long, workers are prone to straining specific muscles. In order to avoid this, proper space needs to be given for a full range of motion.

2. The chair is the most important part of maintaining proper ergonomic and functional posture. It should be adjustable in height and have a tilting mechanism to allow for different positions, based on whether you are typing or writing. Proper support is necessary, so it must be adjustable to customize for your size and shape.

3. At work, Laptops should be used while they are sitting on an table or desk. This means not having them sitting in a person’s lap. This causes improper posture which leads to strained back muscles and other discomforts.

4. Ergonomic keyboard placement, in regards to height and angle, can prevent pains, such as carpel tunnel syndrome, that are caused by repetitive motions.

5. When using the mouse it is important to keep it placed in a convenient area where no strain is involved in reaching it. Try switching from left side usage to right side if possible in an effort to balance each side of your body.

6. Monitors can be a source of headaches and lack of concentration. They should be placed at a correct/comfortable (ergonomic) distance and set at the proper brightness. Breaks should be taken from looking at the monitor to give eyes a rest.

7. Lights should be adjusted to make it comfortable to see the computer monitor without eye strain.

8. Phones should be held with your hand not the shoulder and neck. If this is not possible, using hands free equipment will also work.

9. Desks should be at the correct height and have room for all tasks that are required. Other items such a document holders will assist with proper placement to avoid neck strains.

10. Changing positions often, in any work environment, will help prevent strain of specific muscles. Try placing your trash can 10 feet away so that you will have to get up frequently.

The numerous benefits of office ergonomics in terms of employee health and production make it an important consideration when choosing how to set up the workplace.