Copyright 2008 Digital-2000 Inc. 1

1010EEPP OFFICE AND COMPUTER ERGONOMICS 2

DEFINING ERGONOMICS AND HOW IT APPLIES TO YOU 3 Ergonomics The Human Factor. The science of arranging and adjusting the work environment to fit the employee's body - The Human Factor. Various authors define ergonomics as: discovering the capabilities and limitations of the human body the art and science that addresses workers' job performance and well- being in relation to their job, tasks, tools, equipment and environment the study of the relationship between people and machines or between employees and their environment the study of the interaction between the worker and the process at the workplace

4 How does compatibility between the work environment and people influence safety? human error Since accident statistics have been maintained, we've learned that human error causes: poor productivity poor quality illness accidents Equipment, objects, and environmental characteristics influence human behavior. Optimal performance is obtained when products, equipment, workstations, and work methods are designed while keeping human capabilities and limitations in consideration.

HOW DO WE CONTROL WORKPLACE HAZARDS ? 5 Controlling workplace hazards can take many forms. Ergonomics and industrial hygiene are closely related. Types of workplace controls typically instituted to reduce risk to employees:

6 Engineering Controls Work station design Equipment selection and design Operation modification Administrative Controls Training programs Job rotation and/or enlargement Task pacing Policy and procedures

7 Personal protective equipment Wrist supports Back supports Eye protection Gloves

WHAT DO ERGONOMIC IMPROVEMENTS MEAN TO YOU ? 8 Office Ergonomics Each person is different with different body shapes, heights, and reach capabilities. In short, since we can't change most of our physical characteristics, the work environment must adjust to us. This is the basis of Office Ergonomics.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE PROBLEMS THAT PROPER ERGONOMICS CONTROLS CAN PREVENT ? 9 Most of the injuries typically associated with poor ergonomic conditions include tendonitis Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Tension Neck Syndrome Musculoskeletal Disorders can begin as mildly aggravating and with the continuance of bad habits may quickly progress to be debilitating. Muscle pain and discomfort in the back and shoulders are also typical of poor office conditions.

10 What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome? a specific, severe, and debilitating form of MSD squeezing of the median nerve as it runs into the hand nerve is squeezed by swollen tendons surrounding it as they cross through a bony passage or carpal tunnel at the inside of the wrist

11 What are the symptoms of CTS Tingling of the hands/wrists Tightness Discomfort Stiffness Soreness Burning in the hands, wrists, fingers, forearms, or elbows

12 Feeling of a need to massage your hands, wrists, and arms Pain that wakes you up at night Clumsiness Loss of strength and coordination in the hands

13 What should you do if you're experiencing symptoms of CTS? Correct your work or typing technique work posture workstation to make sure it is positioned properly and adjusted for your body size, height, arm reach, and overall comfort Reduce the amount of force and repetition associated with your work to reduce injuries

14 Job enlargement is another way to reduce strain on the body. if you rotate the type of work you do with co-workers, you can do different types of work that exercise different muscle groups and bones

COMPONENTS OF THE ERGONOMICALLY CORRECT COMPUTER STATION 15 Adjustment period after ergonomic improvements are implemented days for your muscles to become comfortable with changes in your work station SAFETY AND INJURY PREVENTION The goal is SAFETY AND INJURY PREVENTION

16 Some of the specific things that can be done to improve comfort, productivity, and the overall health of people who work at computer workstations: Placement of an anti- glare device on your monitor

17 Placing the monitor at a comfortable/correct eye height Using a paper holder to reduce neck movement Selecting an ergonomic keyboard Using a wrist support with your keyboard Using a wrist support with your mouse pad

18 Properly aligning your body to your keyboard/work Ensuring that your elbows are level with your keyboard Using a fully adjustable work surface Using a fully adjustable task chair

19 Using a tactile, comfortable floor surface under your chair Using a footstool to support your lower back/legs Proper usage of task lighting for fine work Proper usage of indirect lighting in your work area

20 Proper usage of natural lighting in your work area Arranging work to diminish the glare caused by natural light The use of adjustable shelves to place frequently used items Adjusting shelves to a height no lower than knees

21 Adjusting shelves to a height no higher than shoulders Using work dividers to reduce interoffice noise Procuring headsets versus shoulder-use phones Providing ample room in your work area for chair movement

BREAKS AND PERSONAL EXERCISE 22 For the purpose of Office Ergonomics, we separate breaks into two different categories Active breaks Should be taken at least every 30 minutes, especially for those who perform more than 2-3 hours of keyboarding a day Getting up and walking and stretching periodically Micro breaks Should occur more often than an Active break Occurs when you stop keyboarding to do other things

LIFESTYLE CHANGES AND IMPROVEMENTS 23 Body Strengthening and Exercise Stretching and strengthening active muscles promotes relaxation Important for prevention of MSD symptoms Diet and Personal Habits Cut down on stimulants like coffee, sweets, nicotine Spread healthy snacks and water intake throughout the day Keep water at your desk for micro/mini breaks

24 First symptom of dehydration is fatigue, not thirst Fruit and vegetable snacks prevent mid- morning and mid- afternoon blood sugar drops. Dips affect alertness, mood, productivity, and decision-making

25 Diet emphasizing complex carbohydrates, reliable sleeping patterns, and time for yourself. Habits and practices that promote relaxation and physical fitness stop the threat of MSD.

QUICK REVIEW 26 Musculoskeletal Disorders: MSD Cause repetitive motions awkward postures, contact stress vibrations forceful exertion Work Breaks and Exercises: Take micro/mini-breaks and active breaks Exercise Early Injury Reporting All employees should fully understand their job responsibilities in preventing accidents Includes how to prevent MSDs like tendonitis and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Ergonomics should be a part of work, not a requirement of work. Safety is your responsibility.