Elisabeth Bennett

« Ergonomics « The scientific study of human work. « Considers the physical and mental capabilities and limits of the worker.

« Ergonomic Factors « Anatomy « Physiology « Psychology « Social Impact « Physical Layout « Organizational Needs « Task Performance Needs « Temperature « Humidity « Ventilation « Space « Acoustics « Seating « Lighting « Color/Decor

« Goals of Ergonomics « A second goal is to create an atmosphere conducive to productive work « A goal of ergonomics is to reduce work related musculoskeletal disorders by adapting the work to fit the person, instead of forcing the person to adapt to the work

« Musculoskeletal « (falls, sprains, strains and ergonomically caused injuries) –falls are the most common office injury –back problems are the most costly office injury –computers introduced onto equipment not designed for keyboarding also cause musculoskeletal problems

« Solutions « Remove loose cords « Stretch muscles and relieve eye strain by changing position and focus « Purchase quality chairs and adjustable equipment

« Cumulative Trauma Disorders (CTDs) or Repetitive Stress Injuries (RSIs) « result of repetitive movements together with increased force, arm extension, vibration, or a cold environment –Carpal tunnel syndrome is the most common –CTD/RSIs rank second to back injuries for number of days lost from work and rank number one in lost productivity

« Example « at US West, 500 directory assistance operators were diagnosed with some form of CTD/RSIs –70 developed carpal tunnel syndrome, 40 required surgery –the company eventually spent $2,000,000 for ergonomically designed office equipment, and $3,000,000 on medical and legal fees

« Solutions « Phase workers in gradually « Take frequent breaks « Keep wrists in a natural position « Stretch wrists « Apply ice to wrists

« Office Air Pollution « Flu-like symptoms « Allergies « Tension headaches

« Solutions « clean ventilation systems regularly « have remodeling plans checked by a mechanical engineer « place mechanical air filters/cleaners throughout the work space « add living plants

« Electromagnetic Radiation « Bombarded with electromagnetic radiation from high-tension wires, VDTs, microwaves, electric blankets, etc. « May result in miscarriage, cancer, heart disease, and birth defects « In 2000, it is projected that every worker will use a VDT

« Solution « Sit at least 28 from own terminal « Sit at least 40 from other peoples terminals

« Vision Problems « Computer monitors cause eye strain « Screens have improved and continue to improve

« Solutions « eliminate focus shifting by keeping the screen and copy at the same distance « keep screens about 20 degrees below eye level, adjust screen brightness and contrast for comfort, tilt screen to eliminate glare « take breaks, use a shaded lamp, slight reduction in overall office light may improve screen visibility « wear low-powered magnifier lenses which reduce focus effort or purchase specially- designed glasses

« Lighting « Quality - avoid glare and shadows « Direction - mainly indirect « Location - task and ambient

« Color Basics « space perception « effect on creativity, emotions, mood « length of time spent in area « ceilings, walls, work surfaces, floors « shades and surface gloss/flatness - contrast, but not glare « number of predominant colors

« Acoustics « Layout - according to work flow; landscaping « Separation of workstations - curved panels muffle sound. « Select quiet equipment. Keep noisy equipment covered and away from people. « Use continuous sound. « Use porous ceiling, wall, partition material. « Use carpeting with backing and pads.

« Climate « Temperature - 68 degrees F « Humidity - 50 percent « Air circulation - 25 ft per minute

« Electrical Power « Concealed cords and outlets « Prevention of power disturbances « Suppression of static electricity