By definition, ergonomics is the way businesses create a workplace that is employee friendly and geared towards increasing worker productivity. So often do companies suffer from debilitating factors such as employee fatigue and a discomfort that can prohibit them from reaching their utmost potential. Examples of this can be back problems, eye strains and carpel tunnel syndrome. With a few modifications to the workplace, ergonomics can make the workplace become a safer and more enjoyable place to be.
Examples of Ergonomics
Catering to the personal health needs of employees has not always been at the forefront of business production and efficiency. Even something as the way you correctly sit in a chair at your desk has changed. While convention encourages the legs to be at a constant 90 degree angle, modern ergonomics agrees, but stresses that you should move your legs around from time to time rather than keep them static. If you work primarily from behind a desk, you probably know the importance of posture to prevent slouching. Ergonomics does not argue this concept, but does favor reclining against the back of your chair over sitting up straight. This is because when you recline, your lower back muscles are alleviated and pressure is taken off of the spine. So if you have a chair with a cushiony back, why not take advantage of it?
Perhaps the most well known example of ergonomics involves the keyboard. You’ve seen the many different types of keyboards that are designed based on the natural positioning of your arms, right? That is a prime example of ergonomics. Most people think that a keyboard should be flat and placed at the edge of the desk and close to you. This is not necessarily true. When you put your hands upon your keyboard, notice how your wrists and forearms are not perfectly straight, but come together in a slight curve. The keyboard should be designed to accommodate this curve, hence the split keyboards that have a slight upward slope. Arm/wrist rests are also a helpful investment.
Even the positioning of the monitor should be considered: if the top of the monitor is above the eye, you may be running the risk of neck problems. Ergonomics recommends the monitor be no higher than eye level; sometimes a low monitor, such as those that are placed at an angle inside the desk and are seen through a glass plate in the desk, can help alleviate eye and neck strain as well.
Choose Wisely
While ergonomic products are intended to make deskwork more user friendly, be sure you are buying the product that is right for you. For example, wrist pads are a great way to relieve pressure off of your wrists, but one that is too thick or too high can cause just as much pressure. You may also find it difficult to adapt to new keyboard shapes or mouse alternatives at first. Error rates usually increase and speed slows with the introduction of these, but most people return to their original accuracy and speed with time. Before you go out and buy footrests, keyboard trays and arm rests, make sure you choose the right ones. What you buy could cause even more stress on your muscles than before.
By Kelley Caner