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The word, ergonomics, is derived from the Greek words ergos meaning "work" and nomos meaning "laws"; therefore, we have the laws of work. Ergonomics can be further defined as the design of the workplace, equipment, machine, tool, product, environment, and system, taking into consideration human's physical, physiological, biomechanical, and psychological capabilities.
Ergonomics is the scientific, interdisciplinary study of individuals and their physical relationship to the work environment. Proper work space planning is critical in providing a healthy environment for all work areas, from computer intensive workstations, private offices, training applications or for any computer environment where the user is using the computer for long periods of time.
Just as computers have changed the way we work, it is becoming increasingly necessary for us to change the way we operate them. There are concerns over the proper and safe use of computer equipment to prevent injury. Safe computer use, including body posture, typing and mousing methods, and workstation adjustments will help prevent musculoskeletal problems.
In addition to musculoskeletal problems, computer users may experience temporary symptoms such as eye strain, burning eyes, blurred vision, focusing difficulties, and headaches.
The major causes of strain are:
Poor body alignment - take the time to set up your work environment to fit you.
Prolonged positions - take a short break every 20 minutes or so to shift positions, walk, stretch
Repetitive movements - try to vary your work, so that you use different muscles.
Inadequate vision - strains posture as well as eyes - check eyes annually, you may need special glasses
Work performed at computers typically require you to hold yourself still, in static postures, for considerable periods of time while involving small, frequent, repetitive movements of the eyes, head, arms, and fingers. Retaining a fixed posture over long periods of time requires a significant static holding force, which causes fatigue.
Proper work space design is very important in eliminating these types of problems. Some variables of work station design include the computer table, chair, and document holder. Your work station should provide you with a comfortable sitting position that is sufficiently flexible to reach, use, and observe the display screen, keyboard, and related documents. Some general considerations to minimize fatigue include posture support (back, arms, legs, and feet), and adjustable display screens and keyboards. Computer tables or desks should be vertically adjustable to allow for operator adjustment of the screen and keyboard. Proper chair height and support to the lower region of the back are critical factors in reducing fatigue and related musculoskeletal complaints. Document holders also allow the operator to position and view material without straining the eyes, neck, shoulder, and back muscles.
We have provided links to information on the proper ergonomic setup of equipment and related items common in the workplace.
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