BY NASEERAH NANABHAI

10:05:2021

Ergonomics is the process of designing or arranging furniture and devices in a way that fits the people that use, them, thereby minimizing the risk of harm and injury. The aim of ergonomics is to create a comfortable, safe and productive workspace by bringing together health and design.

Many people don’t realize the effects of a poorly designed computer workstation. If ergonomics is not used properly in an office environment it leads to workplace injuries, slower performance and may result in serious health problems. Common symptoms associated with poor design or habits include discomfort in the back, neck and shoulders, hands and wrists, as well as headaches and eye strain.

These can be prevented by following these tips:

1. Take regular stretch breaks – Stretching, changing positions, getting up and away from the desk can help prevent repetitive injuries. Every hour or so, stretch your arms, sides, shoulders, neck, wrists, waist and lower back.

2. Maintain good posture – Natural body positioning is important to preventing injury. Hands, wrists and forearms need to be straight, in-line and parallel to the floor. The head needs to be level or slightly bent forward and in line with the torso. Shoulders are relaxed. Upper arms hang normally at the side of the body.

3. Well positioned desk and work surface – It’s best to have an area for the monitor that keeps it at least 20 inches from your face. It needs to include enough room for the keyboard and mouse. Desk height needs to be at elbow height with feet flat on the floor or footrest.

4. Lighting – Use bright lights in a large area for working on printed materials and focused, diffused light for computer work. If your computer is placed next to a window, the window should have a covering that prevents direct light on the monitor or the monitor should be placed at a right angle to the window. Glare will cause eye fatigue and dryness.

5. Telephone – Use a hands-free headset to avoid balancing the phone between head and shoulder. Have a speaker feature. Adjustable volume and volume limits are helpful.