Office Ergonomics

Ergonomics is the study of our work environments and the effects they have on our productivity, absenteeism, and overall physical and psychological well-being. Through the studies, programs are developed to help employees become more satisfied with their work situations, such as providing the proper chairs for working in or the proper wrist mats for in front of the computer.

Ergonomics is about matching equipment to the user and the task to the worker. Another term used overseas for ergonomics is human factors.

All of us could significantly reduce our risk of injury if we consider the following ergonomic principles:

1. All work activities should permit the worker to adopt several different, but equally healthy and safe postures.
2. Where muscular force has to be exerted it should be done by the largest appropriate muscle groups available.
3. Work activities should be performed with the joints at about mid-point of their range of movement. This applies particularly to the head, trunk, and upper limbs.