ERGONOMICS BTT101 DIGITAL LITERACY (Credit: Mr. Spinelli)

AGENDA  Four Corners  Introduction to Ergonomics  Assessment Tasks

FOUR CORNERS ACTIVITY  I will project a statement on the whiteboard. After reading the statement, decide whether you agree, somewhat agree, somewhat disagree or disagree and move to the specified area of the classroom.  Be prepared to defend your opinion!!!

 Statement #1: Using the computer is not really a strenuous activity.  Statement #2: New laptops that are light weight actually cause less stress on our body when we use them.  Statement #3: The only injury I can get from overusing my computer is damaging my eyes.  Statement #4: When working for a company, it is your responsibility to make sure you are working in a comfortable computer workstation environment.

WHAT DOES EROGONOMICS MEAN?  The science concerned with designing safe and comfortable machines for humans.  In the computer field, ergonomics plays an important role in the design of monitors, keyboards, and mice  The actual furniture that comprises the entire computer workstation also falls under ergonomics  Another term for ergonomics is human engineering

ERGONOMICS AND COMPUTERS  Research has shown that certain ergonomic aspects of work environments influence workers’ productivity and health.  Temperature, lighting, air quality, furniture and equipment all affect how well workers work.  Workplaces that are not designed ergonomically can cause work-related injuries over time

SO WHAT CAN HAPPEN?  Most common category of ergonomic related injuries and computers is musculoskeletal injuries (MSIs) – also known as repetitive strain injuries (RSIs)  This occurs when you perform the same task over and over – damage occurs to nerves, muscles and tendons  Improper posture at a computer can lead to ergonomic-related health problems.

Most common type of MSI is carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Occurs when the nerves in your wrist become damaged Other ergonomic related illnesses include: Eyestrain Headaches Fatigue Backaches Poor circulation

ERGONOMIC WORKSTATION CHECKLIST 1. Monitor at a height so that your neck is straight 2. Elbows should be at 90 degrees 3. Wrists should be straight 4. Thighs parallel to floor without legs dangling 5. Chair should be adjustable with a lumbar support 6. Space to use the mouse with a wrist rest 7. Use an adjustable document holder as the same height as the monitor

YOUR TASK  Log onto our website  Working individually, you are to complete the questions and reading “The Ergonomically Correct Workplace” – individually  Once this is finished you may work with a partner to complete, “Ergonomics Assignment”. I will give you two in class work periods to complete this.  Once completed submit your work to Mrs. Kaschak YES, THIS WILL BE MARKED!