Ergonomics for Best Performance

Presented by:

Business Center NorthNSHE

A Definition

Ergonomics is the study of how the human body interacts and interfaces with it’s mechanical environment

The Ergonomically Correct Seated Position

Crude but Effective

Standard Ergonomic Equipment

• ADJUSTABLE CHAIR

• KEYBOARD TRAY

• MOUSING DEVICE

• ADJUSTABLE MONITOR STAND/RISER

• FOOT REST

• DOCUMENT HOLDER

Chairs

• One chair will not fit all• Try a “variety” of chairs• If possible, test a chair for several days• Learn how to adjust the chair properly• Purchasing requires “service after sale”• If it is broken, replace or repair it… NOW!

Chairs

• Chairs are designed to fit a “normative” range of people

• People who are heavier or lighter, taller or shorter or with disabilities or orthopedic injuries may need a specially ordered chair

• Chairs designed for continuous use are commercially available

The Chair

• Minimum Adjustments:• Height• Back

• Lumbar Support• Angle

•Seat• Depth of seat• Pan angle (optional)

•Armrests• Height• Span• Swivel top arms preferred

Chair Examples

The Keyboard Tray

• Fully adjustable• Grip and Lock Mechanism for those who move tray frequently

• Wide enough for keyboard and mouse to be placed next to each other

• Mouse at same height as keyboard • There are different models for corner use and straight edge use

• Pay attention to depth of the track

Sample Keyboard and Mouse Trays

Keyboard & Mouse

•Not everyone needs a “natural” keyboard•Some do need a “natural” keyboard•Literally hundred of keyboards•Mouse or trackball is an individual preference

• Trackball must NOT be thumb operated

•A wrist rest should be provided for most users

• Foam vs. Gel is an individual choice• Avoid wrist rests that are too thick

Sample Keyboards

Sample Keyboards

Sample Pointing Devices

Monitor

•Monitor Position should allow for normal head and neck position•For most, top of monitor screen is at eye level • Bifocal wearers like a lower monitor position.•Challenge of proper corrective lens •Use a monitor riser to gain height

• Even a phone book or ream of paper will do

Sample Monitor Risers

Footrests

•Footrests must be used in the event that proper working height cannot be reached without lifting the chair to height that does not allow the users feet to touch the floor.

•It is also acceptable as an alternative position for those who sit for extended periods

Document Holders

•Prefer document holder in line with monitor

•Document holder mounted to side of monitor is acceptable

•Document holders should hold documents in line and should not bounce or wobble during use.

Sample Document Holders

Laptop Users

• Should be provided with docking stations (port replicators), monitor, full size keyboard and mouse for use at a desk.

OR

• Folding Stand with full size peripherals

Phones and other office equipment

• Headsets recommended for individuals who use the phone extensively or who must use both hands while using the telephone

• Avoid the use of cradles

• Workers who staple, date stamp and hole punch extensively should be provided with electric models

Other thoughts and considerations

• Fit the workstation to the employee, not vice-versa

• Everyone is unique• Vary Work Tasks • Do not ignore complaints of discomfort

• Be aware of risk factors• Avoid awkward/fixed postures• Avoid contact stress with hard/sharp

surface • Address any physical problems early

The Economics of Ergonomics

• Think of the bigger picture• Which is cheaper?

•The average ergonomic claim?• $4456.77• High = $54,137.74• Low = $6.10

•The average ergonomic office setup?• Chair = $500.00• Keyboard Tray = $250.00• Monitor Stand = $100.00• Footrest $50.00• Total $900.00

More Economics…