ASHLAND UNIVERSITY

ERGONOMICS

JANUARY, 2006

Derived from the Greek words ergon meaning work and nomos meaning natural laws, ergonomics is the science of arranging and adjusting the work environment to fit the person. By reviewing ergonomic principles and applying them to each individual's workstation, comfort and productivity may be improved, while physical stresses and potential injuries can be reduced.

Workplaces and jobs need to be designed to reflect the capabilities and limitations of the workers.

Office Ergonomic checkpoints

• Adjust your chair height and back so that your feet are flat on the floor, and your forearms and wrists are straight at the keyboard level.
• The top of the monitor should be at or below eye level - slightly lower for those wearing bifocals. The monitor should be 18 to 24 inches from the eyes.
• Locate the keyboard directly in front of the monitor at proper height that keeps wrists straight and relaxed. A padded wrist rest should be located in front of the keyboard. Forearms should be parallel to the floor.
• Place the document holder at the same height and distance as the monitor to reduce head movement and eyestrain.
• Place the monitor at a right angle to a window or use shades to block the sunlight; use a glare shield if all other glare-reducing options are exhausted.
• Place mouse, phone, notepad, etc, within easy reach.
• Provide leg room under the desk - allow room to stretch out and change leg positions.
• Vary tasks, take breaks and exercise

Manual Materials Handling factors

• the task (postures required for manual handling; work heights, reach distances, frequency of the task, task duration and pace, travel distance)
• the load (weight, size, bulk, stability, etc.)
• the environment (is it cramped or hot?)
• individual capabilities

Minimize stressful body positions and movements by reducing bending motions.