Ergonomics What is Ergonomics l Ergonomics derives from

Ergonomics

What is Ergonomics? l ‘Ergonomics’ derives from two Greek words: ‘ergon’ (work) and ‘nomoi’ (natural laws) l The process of designing workplaces, products and systems to fit the worker l Ergonomists use data such as anthropometry, biomechanics, environmental physics, and social psychology l The purpose of ergonomics is to provide a comfortable work environment

How to Sit at a Computer Step 1: Chair l Push your hips as far back as possible in chair l Adjust seat height (feet should be flat on the floor) l Adjust seat angle (should be 100°-110° reclined angle) l Adjust armrests (shoulders should be relaxed)

How to Sit at a Computer Step 2: Keyboard l Pull up close to keyboard l Keyboard should be positioned directly in front of body l Adjust keyboard height l Place mouse close to keyboard

How to Sit at a Computer Step 3: Monitor, Document, Telephone l Centre monitor directly in front of you l Position top of monitor 2” 3” above eye level when seated l Reduce glare on screen l Position reference documents between monitor and keyboard l Use handsets and speakerphone while using the telephone

How to Sit at a Computer Step 4: Pauses and Breaks l Take short breaks every 20 -30 minutes l Rest and refocus your eyes frequently l Use correct posture

Injuries From Bad Ergonomics l Neck fatigue ¡Looking down at the keyboard l Back pain ¡Twisted posture or inadequate support l Eye fatigue ¡Poor screen quality or staring at the screen for too long l Shoulder pain ¡Keyboard position too high

Were you paying attention? 1) Which of the following is not key to ergonomics? a. b. c. d. keyboard height mouse size glare on screen angle of monitor

2) Which of these injuries could be avoided by using proper ergonomics? a. b. c. d. carpal tunnel syndrome subclavian steal syndrome dromomania dystonia

3) Which of the following statements is true? a. Your seat should be at a 80°- 90° angle b. You should take short breaks every hour or so c. The top of your monitor should be 2” to 3” above eye level when seated d. Eye fatigue is inevitable when working with computers