Computer ErgonomicsBy: Darrin Blake

What is Computer Ergonomics?

• Computer Ergonomics:– The arrangement of our work

stations and or out work behavior can increase, or decrease repetitive stress injuries.

Where did Computer Ergonomics come from?• Computer Ergonomics came

from the concern of employees in the work area who have encountered work related injuries because of repetitive stress to certain joints or bones.

How has it changed society?

• There are less Repeated stress injuries.

Are repeated stress injuries common?

• Yes, they are common.• They occur mostly in

people who work in office-like settings.

• Also in people:– Who are old– People who work

strenuously with the same routine

How to prevent Repetitive Stress

Injuries?• The placement of the P.C. • Height of the chair• How far away is the monitor• Lighting in the area

• These are just some of the things that you can improve to prevent the injures.

How to prevent Repetitive Stress

Injuries?• Stretching– Every 30mins or every

hour• To prevent stiffness

in neck and shoulders

• Breaks– Every 2hours

• Includes:– Looking some where

other than your screen– Standing– Etc.

Preventing Repetitive Stress Injuries? (cont’d)

Test to check your typing area:

• As stated on www.EHRS.upenn.com– …“The proper work

surface height depends on the workers height as shown in the table below:

• These are approximate heights

Workers Height Table Height

5’0”- 5’3” 25”- 26”

5’4”- 5’6” 26”- 27”

5’7”- 6’0” 27”- 30”

6’1”- 6’5” 30”- 32”

Test to check your typing area:

As stated on www.ergonomics.UCLA.e

du• Eye Strain• Reduce glare on your computer

screen by adjusting it's placement and tilt, using a glare guard or using window blinds and light filters

• Rest eyes intermittently by focusing on distant objects

• Take visual breaks • Blink often when viewing the monitor • Wear appropriate corrective lens for

computer work • Adjust the font, flicker and contrast of

your monitor screen

Cont’d

• Force/Pressure– Key with a light touch – Avoid prolonged or excessive

grasping of the mouse – Use larger diameter pens to

reduce grip when writing – Use electric stapler for large

stapling jobs – Select a chair with adequate

padding – Avoid resting elbows and wrists on

sharp or hard edges and surfaces

Cont’d• Awkward Posture• Sit supported against the back of your chair • Avoid bending or twisting your neck or trunk • Keep shoulders relaxed and arms close by

sides when working • Keep elbows at a 100 to 110 degree angle

when using the keyboard and mouse • Keep wrists in a straight or neutral position

when keying or mousing • Keep fingers in a relaxed position when

keying or using the mouse • Keep work materials within close reach • Use a telephone headset for

frequent/prolonged phone use • Change positions/tasks frequently

References:

• www.osha.gov• www.EHRS.upenn.edu• www.SEFSC.hoaa.gov• www.cardius.com• www.ergonomice.UCLA.edu