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Copyright 2008Digital-2000 Inc.

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1010EEPPOFFICE AND COMPUTER

ERGONOMICS

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DEFINING ERGONOMICS AND HOW IT APPLIES TO YOU

Ergonomics The science of

arranging and adjusting the work environment to fit the employee's body - The Human Factor.

Various authors define ergonomics as: discovering the

capabilities and limitations of the human body

the art and science that addresses workers' job performance and well-being in relation to their job, tasks, tools, equipment and environment

the study of the relationship between people and machines or between employees and their environment

the study of the interaction between the worker and the process at the workplace

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How does compatibility between the work environment and people influence safety? Since accident

statistics have been maintained, we've learned that human error causes: poor productivity poor quality illness accidents

Equipment, objects, and environmental characteristics influence human behavior. Optimal performance

is obtained when products, equipment, workstations, and work methods are designed while keeping human capabilities and limitations in consideration.

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HOW DO WE CONTROL WORKPLACE HAZARDS?

Controlling workplace hazards can take many forms. Ergonomics and

industrial hygiene are closely related.

Types of workplace controls typically instituted to reduce risk to employees:

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Engineering Controls Work station design Equipment

selection and design

Operation modification

Administrative Controls Training programs Job rotation and/or

enlargement Task pacing Policy and

procedures

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Personal protective equipment Wrist supports Back supports Eye protection Gloves

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WHAT DO ERGONOMIC IMPROVEMENTS MEAN TO YOU?

Each person is different with different body shapes, heights, and reach capabilities. In short, since we can't change most of our physical characteristics, the work environment must adjust to us. This is the basis of Office Ergonomics.

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WHAT ARE SOME OF THE PROBLEMS THAT PROPER ERGONOMICS CONTROLS CAN

PREVENT?

Most of the injuries typically associated with poor ergonomic conditions include tendonitis Carpal Tunnel

Syndrome Tension Neck

Syndrome

Musculoskeletal Disorders can begin as mildly aggravating and with the continuance of bad habits may quickly progress to be debilitating.

Muscle pain and discomfort in the back and shoulders are also typical of poor office conditions.

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What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome? a specific, severe,

and debilitating form of MSD squeezing of the

median nerve as it runs into the hand nerve is squeezed

by swollen tendons surrounding it as they cross through a bony passage or carpal tunnel at the inside of the wrist

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What are the symptoms of CTS Tingling of the

hands/wrists Tightness Discomfort Stiffness Soreness Burning in the

hands, wrists, fingers, forearms, or elbows

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Feeling of a need to massage your hands, wrists, and arms

Pain that wakes you up at night

Clumsiness Loss of strength and

coordination in the hands

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What should you do if you're experiencing symptoms of CTS? Correct your

work or typing technique

work posture workstation to make

sure it is positioned properly and adjusted for your body size, height, arm reach, and overall comfort

Reduce the amount of force and repetition associated with your work to reduce injuries

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Job enlargement is another way to reduce strain on the body. if you rotate the

type of work you do with co-workers, you can do different types of work that exercise different muscle groups and bones

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COMPONENTS OF THE ERGONOMICALLY CORRECT COMPUTER STATION

Adjustment period after ergonomic improvements are implemented 10-20 days for your

muscles to become comfortable with changes in your work station

The goal is SAFETY AND INJURY PREVENTION

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Some of the specific things that can be done to improve comfort, productivity, and the overall health of people who work at computer workstations: Placement of an

anti-glare device on your monitor

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Placing the monitor at a comfortable/correct eye height

Using a paper holder to reduce neck movement

Selecting an ergonomic keyboard

Using a wrist support with your keyboard

Using a wrist support with your mouse pad

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Properly aligning your body to your keyboard/work

Ensuring that your elbows are level with your keyboard

Using a fully adjustable work surface

Using a fully adjustable task chair

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Using a tactile, comfortable floor surface under your chair

Using a footstool to support your lower back/legs

Proper usage of task lighting for fine work

Proper usage of indirect lighting in your work area

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Proper usage of natural lighting in your work area

Arranging work to diminish the glare caused by natural light

The use of adjustable shelves to place frequently used items

Adjusting shelves to a height no lower than knees

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Adjusting shelves to a height no higher than shoulders

Using work dividers to reduce interoffice noise

Procuring headsets versus shoulder-use phones

Providing ample room in your work area for chair movement

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BREAKS AND PERSONAL EXERCISE

For the purpose of Office Ergonomics, we separate breaks into two different categories Active breaks

Should be taken at least every 30 minutes, especially for those who perform more than 2-3 hours of keyboarding a day

Getting up and walking and stretching periodically

Micro breaks Should occur more

often than an Active break

Occurs when you stop keyboarding to do other things

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LIFESTYLE CHANGES AND IMPROVEMENTS

Body Strengthening and Exercise Stretching and

strengthening active muscles promotes relaxation Important for

prevention of MSD symptoms

Diet and Personal Habits Cut down on

stimulants like coffee, sweets, nicotine

Spread healthy snacks and water intake throughout the day

Keep water at your desk for micro/mini breaks

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First symptom of dehydration is fatigue, not thirst

Fruit and vegetable snacks prevent mid-morning and mid-afternoon blood sugar drops. Dips affect alertness,

mood, productivity, and decision-making

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Diet emphasizing complex carbohydrates, reliable sleeping patterns, and time for yourself.

Habits and practices that promote relaxation and physical fitness stop the threat of MSD.

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QUICK REVIEW

Musculoskeletal Disorders: MSD Cause

repetitive motions awkward postures,

contact stress vibrations forceful exertion

Work Breaks and Exercises: Take micro/mini-breaks

and active breaks Exercise

Early Injury Reporting All employees should

fully understand their job responsibilities in preventing accidents

Includes how to prevent MSDs like tendonitis and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Ergonomics should be a part of work, not a requirement of work.

Safety is your responsibility.