Ergonomic Workstation Computer Software Web Tips Guide
Ergonomic Workstation For Every Day Comfort
By Joel Wannamaker
There are many factors that go into creating a pleasing ergonomic
workstation. One must consider chairs, keyboards, computer monitors,
mice, lighting, noise, ventilation, body positioning and posture.
Over the years, product designs have focused on helping the body
remain in a neutral position, but it is also important that human
factors are considered as well. For this reason, many managers
are choosing to call in an ergonomics consultant to train new
employees on how they can minimize their risk of injury in the
workplace.
According to Cornell University ergonomic researchers, there
are several guidelines for creating an optimal workplace environment.
Adjusting Chair And Desk For Height, Weight And Shape
One of the first considerations for creating effective ergonomic
workstations is to determine how the computer will be used. First,
one must consider how many people are using each computer. If
only one person is using the computer, then the chair and desk
can be optimized for one person’s height, weight and shape.
If it’s going to be shared, then there will need to be
a a review of options and a more versatile arrangement, with an
adjustable ergonomic chair, desk and task lighting. Next, one
must factor in how long people will be using the computer. If
a person will only be hopping online for a few minutes at a time,
then ergonomic design might not be a priority.
However, if one will be seated and working for more than one
hour, an ergonomic setup should be arranged. If the workers are
at their desks for more than four hours, then ergonomic workstations
should be a top priority.
Two Types Of Ergonomic Chairs
Choosing the right chair is another vital consideration for an
ergonomic workstation. There are two types of ergonomic chairs,
the task chair and the executive chair. Task chairs are designed
for very short-term use and usually consist of a basic seat with
a mesh or padded back that tilts backward and forward, moves on
wheels and adjusts its height.
An executive chair usually comes with extra padding and adjustable
lower lumbar support. It should tilt forward and backward, with
some sort of locking mechanism, and adjust up or down.
According to Cornell’s research and economic guidelines, the
best posture for ergonomic chairs is at a 100-110 degree recline,
not the 90 degree angle everyone assumes.
Armrests For Using The Phone
Armrests are good when workers are on the phone or kicked back
and relaxing, but they are not advised for typing or using the
mouse because the flexor muscles in the forearms and the ulnar
nerve at the elbow may compress. Most office chairs have adjustable
height armrests that can move out of the way for maximum comfort.
Lastly, the layout of the ergonomic workstation must be considered.
If workers need to read nearby documents or access filing cabinets
and phones, these items should be nearby to minimize back strain.
Angled document holders are ideal.
Minimizing Risk Of Neck Strain
Computer monitors should be placed directly in front of workers,
not angled to the left or right, as to minimize neck twisting.
People who use left-aligned word processing software like MS Word
may find it advantageous to sit slightly to the left of the screen
so they are usually looking at the monitor straight-on.
The height should be 17-18 degrees below horizontal eye level
when the worker is reclined at a 100-110 degree angle. The best
viewing distance is at arm’s length away. With these tips, computer
workstations should be an enjoyable place to be, not an unhealthy
setting that one dreads everyday.
About the Author:
Joel Wannamaker has written a number of articles on Ergonomics, Computers, Computer Hardware,
and Software including
Ergonomic Keyboards,
Ergonomic Workstation,
Internet Connection Speed,
Internet Traffic,
Start A Website,
Affiliate Programs.
Keep a lookout for more of his articles on this website.
Give Me Just The Ergonomic Facts.....
What is the history of ergonomics?
Believe it or not but the history of ergonomics
extends all the way back to Ancient Greece. There has been evidence
uncovered that dates ergonomic principles to the Hellenic civilization
in the 5th century BCE.
The famous Hippocrates once described how
a surgeon’s area of work should be laid out and how the tools
should be arranged so that they are within easy grasp of the surgeon.
This would eliminate the stress of over-reaching
for certain implements. Even the Early Egyptians designed work
areas where tools would be within easy reach of whoever was using
them.
It seems as if ergonomic principles have
been around for quite some time and have evolved more out of common
sense than of someone specifically designing a work station.
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