ERGONOMICS BY DANTE WEBBE

WHAT IS ERGONOMICS? Ergonomics is the science of seeking to adapt work or working conditions to suit the worker. Ergonomics is important because it helps prevent injury for the worker as they sit behind computers for long periods of time.

HOW IS ERGONOMICS RELATED TO COMPUTERS? As computers are being used more frequently in the work environment. Many people spend hours a day in front of a computer without thinking about the impact on their bodies. They are unaware of how this physically stresses their body and the effect it can have over time.

LIGHTING It is important to have good lighting in your work environment to prevent eyestrain, eye irritation, blurred vision, dry burning eyes, headaches, and difficulty seeing documents or screen (too much glare, too little light, or shadows). To reduce these effects, cover windows with adjustable blinds, dim overhead lights, and angle the monitor away from lights and windows.

MOVEMENT Working at a computer often involves few changes in body movement. This lack of movement can cause muscle pain and strain. To minimize the strain, it is recommended to take 5-10 minute breaks for every hour spent at a work station. It is also recommended to take walks during these breaks. You should relax your muscles by stretching, occasionally look away from the screen at things that are far, and breathe normally.

POSTURE It is important to have a good posture while working. You should buy a wrist rest to prevent or reduce the effects of carpal tunnel syndrome. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that causes numbness, tingling sensation, and sometimes pain in the hand and fingers. It is caused by compression on the underside of the wrists. You should also sit tall, have arms parallel to floor and at a 90 degree angle, and use ergonomically friendly equipment.

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