Good ergonomics

You may not be familiar with the word “ergonomics,” but an understanding of its basic concepts can be positive not only for your employees, but for your business and your bottom line. By adapting ergonomically sound principles, you can improve safety, efficiency, and productivity in the workplace.   
           
Ergonomic principles mean that job tasks, workstations, tools, and equipment fit the physical capabilities of employees. Basically, ergonomics is fitting the job to the employee.

Good ergonomics focuses on the basic relationship between the worker and the job. A safe, comfortable workstation can decrease the risk of injury, improve morale, and increase productivity.

According to the National Institute of Occupational Safety & Health (NIOSH), a comprehensive ergonomic analysis of employee computer workstations includes an analysis of individual workstation components, work process flow, and workstation environmental conditions. Other factors that need to be considered are the effects of task duration and frequency, exposure to ergonomic stressors such as force and repetition, and awkward postures.

Here are simple steps that workers can take to improve the ergonomics of their office workstation:

1. Tilt or swivel your monitor screen to eliminate reflection on the screen, or add an anti-glare filter.
   
2. Place the monitor directly in front of you while at the keyboard. The top of  the monitor screen should be at or below eye level and roughly an arm’s length away.
3. Adjust the height of your chair to achieve proper posture. Adjust the keyboard or chair height to keep your forearms, wrists, and hands in a straight line while using the keyboard.
   
4. Sit with your head and neck in an upright position, even while on the telephone. Keep your shoulders relaxed and elbows close to the body.
   
5. Stand at least once per hour to stimulate circulation and take brief exercise breaks to relieve muscle tension and fatigue.