CEN3722 Human Computer Interaction Ergonomics Dr. Ron Eaglin

Objectives Understand the meaning of Ergonomics Know the basic Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSD’s) Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Tendonitis Rotator Cuff Epicondylitis Trigger finger Muscle strains and lower back injuries

Objectives Know the adverse effects of preventable MSD’s on worker productivity Know how ergonomics helps in prevention from these musculoskeletal disorders Know regulations and protections for workers Know how to develop a plan for prevention of MSD’s

Ergonomics Fitting the Person to the Job Risk Factors Lifting heavy items (pushing and pulling heavy loads) Bending and reaching (awkward body positions) Performing tasks repetitively Body position By Yamavu - Own work, CC0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=27528103

MSD – Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Numbness and tingling in the hand caused by a pinched nerve in the wrist Very common (> 3 million US cases annually) Many causes (common in many professions including computer) Generally very preventable and easily treatable (including surgery)

MSD - Tendonitis Inflammation of tendons (microscopic tears) Caused by overuse (too often) and overload (too much) Can last a few days or weeks, risk of re-injury Treatment – NSAIDS, ice packs, splinting

MSD – Rotator Cuff Form of tendonitis in shoulder joints Not typically common as computer injury Treatment and symptoms same as tendonitis

MSD - Epicondylitis Commonly called tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) also golfers elbow (medial epicondylitis) Also very common – racquet sports are a risk factor Form of tendonitis and treatments are similar

MSD – Trigger finger Tenosynovitis – finger gets stuck in a bent position Inflammation narrows the space within the sheath surrounding finger tendons Caused primarily by repetitive gripping actions Treatment – rest, splint, NSAIDS

MSD – Lower back injury/pain Very common in computer/office workers Ensure correct ergonomic heights for office chair Use of lower back supports Regular posture/breaks/exercises/stretching/movement True also for driving

Effects of MSD’s MSD’s account for 33% of all worker injury and illness cases (BLS) MSD’s are most frequently reported cause of lost or restricted work time. Also strongly related to quality of life issues

Ergonomics - Prevention Ensure any desk position follows ergonomic guidelines Use practice of frequent breaks or exercises Recognize signs of repetitive task injuries or tendonitis

Ergonomics – OSHA Protections OSHA General Duty Clause Employers must keep their workplace free from recognized serious hazards including ergonomic hazards. The basic criteria OSHA will use in deciding whether to cite are those imposed by the General Duty Clause itself: whether an ergonomic hazard exists whether that hazard is recognized whether the hazard is causing, or is likely to cause, serious physical harm to employees whether a feasible means exists to reduce the hazard

Ergonomics Plans Management must support ergonomic process Worker involvement Workplace assessment Identification or risks Responsible for risk factor avoidance Training on ergonomics and factors Have reporting mechanism Have evaluation process

Objectives Understand the meaning of Ergonomics Know the basic Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSD’s) Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Tendonitis Rotator Cuff Epicondylitis Trigger finger Muscle strains and lower back injuries

Objectives Know the adverse effects of preventable MSD’s on worker productivity Know how ergonomics helps in prevention from these musculoskeletal disorders Know regulations and protections for workers Know how to develop a plan for prevention of MSD’s