ergonomic7

Office Ergonomics Handbook - Part 2 - Week 7 09/22/2023

Overall Office Setup

  • Consider all prior sections before setup.

  • Think about how to arrange your desk effectively.

Organizing by Frequency of Use

  • Items by Frequency:

    • Low Frequency: Stapler, Reference books, Files, Calculator.

    • Medium Frequency: Telephone, Tissue box, In/out box.

    • High Frequency: Pens.

Phone Use Recommendations

  • Use a headset or speakerphone when typing or writing to free hands.

  • Position phone 50-60 cm away for frequent use.

  • Move phone to the opposite desk side during breaks to promote body positioning.

Computer Equipment

  • Various types of computers:

    • Desktop, Laptop, Hybrid, Tablet, Phone.

  • Select appropriate equipment based on job and ergonomic needs.

Keyboard and Mouse Adjustments

  • Positioning:

    • Keep keyboard and mouse just below elbow level and close to the body.

    • Mouse should be beside the keyboard for natural movement.

  • Using Adjustable Trays:

    • Adjust trays to elbow level if available.

    • If not, adjust chair height to align keyboard/mouse with elbow.

Ergonomic Keyboards

  • Ensure the keyboard allows wrists to remain neutral.

  • Prioritize workspace adjustments before changing keyboard types.

Keyboard Tray Considerations

  • Assess Features:

    • Size to accommodate both keyboard and mouse.

    • Adjustable in height and angle.

    • Free from undertrays that cause discomfort.

    • Adequate space for a wrist rest and easy to move.

Proper Typing Posture

  • Keep wrists floating while typing; avoid resting on keyboard when typing.

  • Use wrist pads only during breaks.

Wrist Rest Design

  • Must match keyboard height and support wrist in a neutral position.

  • Should be made of moderately firm material.

Mouse Adjustments

  • Mouse should be directly in front of the user.

  • Maintain a 90-degree elbow angle; whole arm should move the mouse.

  • Users are encouraged to experiment with input devices like alternative mouse styles.

Document Holder Usage

  • Use document holders to maintain neck position and reduce muscle strain.

  • Hold documents at the same distance as the monitor for ease of focus.

  • Holder Features:

    • Offers stability for various document sizes.

    • Strong enough for frequently used items.

    • Easily adjustable to accommodate differences in materials.

Eye Ergonomics

  • Regular eye exams are crucial for those who work with screens.

  • Consider bifocal impacts on monitor viewing heights and distances.

  • Special computer glasses might be necessary for relief if bifocals are inappropriate.

Questions and Answers on Office Ergonomics

Q1: What is the importance of arranging an office setup?A1: Proper office setup enhances productivity and reduces the risk of musculoskeletal disorders by promoting good posture and organization.

Q2: How should items be organized on a desk?A2: Items should be organized by frequency of use: high-frequency items (e.g., pens) should be easily accessible, while low-frequency items (e.g., stapler, reference books) can be stored further away.

Q3: What are some recommendations for phone use?A3: Use a headset or speakerphone when typing, position the phone 50-60 cm away, and move the phone to the opposite desk side during breaks to support better posture.

Q4: What types of computer equipment should be considered for ergonomic needs?A4: Consider using a desktop, laptop, hybrid, tablet, or phone based on the specific job requirements and ergonomic factors.

Q5: What are the proper keyboard and mouse adjustments?A5: The keyboard and mouse should be positioned below elbow level and close to the body with the mouse beside the keyboard to allow for natural movement.

Q6: What should be considered in keyboard tray design?A6: Ensure the keyboard tray is large enough for both keyboard and mouse, adjustable in height and angle, and allows for wrist rest placement without discomfort.

Q7: How should typing posture be maintained?A7: Keep wrists floating while typing without resting on the keyboard; use wrist pads only during breaks.

Q8: Why are document holders useful?A8: Document holders maintain neck position and reduce strain by keeping documents at the same distance as the monitor.

Q9: What eye ergonomics practices should be followed?A9: Regular eye exams are important, and users should consider special computer glasses to reduce discomfort, especially if they wear bifocals.