1. ERGONOMICS
Image courtesy of mkprosopsis.com
12/15

2. What is ERGONOMICS? Definition:
er·go·nom·ics (ûr'gə-nŏm'ĭks): an applied science concerned with designing and arranging things people use so that the people and things interact most efficiently and safely.
Goal of Ergonomics:
Identify tasks that create unhealthy stress on your body.
Prevent injuries by adjusting the way you perform your job.

3. Defining ERGONOMICS
The most simple definition is: “Fitting the job to the worker”.
The practice of adapting products and processes to human characteristics and capabilities in order to improve people’s well-being and optimize productivity.
We must understand:
What tasks are being performed
Who is performing the tasks
What is being used to perform the tasks

4. Components of a Work Station
Chair
Seat Height, Seat Angle, Seat Depth, Backrest Height, Backrest Angle, Armrests
Work surface
Primary, Secondary & Reference Zone
Keyboard/Mouse
Monitor
Distance, Height, Location & Angle
Telephone
Environment
Lighting, Air Quality, Temperature, Space & Noise
Accessories
Document Holders, Footrests, Keyboard Trays & Glare Screens

5. Why do we HURT?? Most common factors: Poor posture Lack of movement
As employees of the University, it is important that you take responsibility for yourself.
If you notice something set-up wrong in your workstation or are feeling pain or discomfort due to working, you need to report it to the Safety Office right away!

6. Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs)
What are MSDs?
Serious injuries caused by excessive or repetitive physical demands placed on your body over long periods of time.
MSDs can affect any body part that is placed under excessive or repetitive amounts of stress.

7. How serious are MSDs in the workplace?
MSDs are the most common workplace injury.
Image courtesy of whsm.com
Serious injuries caused by excessive or repetitive physical demands placed on your body over long periods of time.
MSDs can affect any body part that is placed under excessive or repetitive amounts of stress.
1 out of every 3 MSDs are serious enough to result in lost time from work.

8. Common MSDs Raynaud’s syndrome Carpal tunnel syndrome Trigger finger
Tendonitis
Herniated spinal disc

9. Warning Signs and Symptoms of MSDs
Weakened grip strength
Decreased range of motion
Loss of muscle function
Symptoms
Pain
Numbness
Stiffness
Burning or tingling
Image courtesy of stackful-dev.com

10. When should I report my symptoms?
When in doubt, report your symptoms to the VCSU Safety Office- especially if:
Pain is severe
Pain becomes worse over time
Symptoms include numbness or tingling
Your injury keeps you up at night
File an “Initial Incident Report” and make an appointment to see your DMP.
Report any MSD risks and recommendations to the VCSU Safety Office.

11. Common Causes of MSDs Heavy lifting Tight/strong gripping
Moving heavy objects can damage your spine or strain muscles.
Tight/strong gripping
Tight gripping can strain the muscles and tendons in your hands.
Repeated motions
If you do not let your body rest, any repeated motion can cause MSDs.
Awkward positions
Examples: working with your hands over your head, bending your neck or back, kneeling or squatting.
Vibration
Use of power tools can damage blood vessels in your arms and hands.
Contact Stress
Working with tools can cause contact stress. Examples: pliers that are not padded and tools with finger grooves.

12. How can I prevent MSDs? Look for alternate ways of lifting
Increase your grip strength
Take control over motions and how often you make them
Make simple equipment adjustments
Taking precautions to reduce vibrations
Wearing proper clothing (padded gloves)

13. ERGONOMIC Exercises ERGOCISING!
There is software available to download on your computer that you can set-up for a “Stretching Reminder” every 15, 30, 45, or 60 minutes.
These exercises give you a break & reduce pain based on your specific ailment.
You can find the software at

14. Summary
Image courtesy of University of Wisconsin
ERGONOMIC practices can help to reduce workplace injury, but cannot be effective working alone.
You need to take personal responsibility and protect yourself while on the job!

15. Contact the VCSU Safety Office:
Questions or Concerns?
Contact the VCSU Safety Office: OR