Three Key Components of an Ergonomic Workplace
Ergonomics is all about the fit between the worker and his work or how well
a product
supports the user while they are working:
- Strives to make the workplace safer and more
comfortable for the worker
- Greater comfort means workers are more focused
on the job
- Resulting in greater productivity and a
reduction in work related injuries
- Different for each person because no one is
alike
Really, just common sense!
Three Key Components of a Good Ergonomic Workplace
1) The ideal position is one in which the body is in a neutral position
- Muscles and ligaments are in most relaxed
position
- Neutral is the body’s strongest
position
- For back: Head balanced over shoulder and hips with head facing forward and chin level
- Hands and wrists: Hand inline with the wrist and forearm
2) Position objects within Ergonomic Reach Zones
- Primary, or Initial, Reach: For items accessed
frequently throughout the day
- Secondary, or Maximum, Reach:Requires bending
forward
- Extended, or Standing, Reach: Requires user to stand or move in order to reach an object
Whatever you call them, position work accessories within these zones.
3)
Move to Avoid Static Postures
- Don’t sit, stand or work in a static position
for more than 30 minutes
- Take micro-breaks throughout the day – for body
and for eyes
- Chairs with lots of adjustment features allow
users to easily adjust and move
- Height adjustable tables allow quick and easy
adjustment to change posture or adjust to the work requirements and users of different
heights
- Neutral postures are still preferred but must
alternate with dynamic postures to reduce stress and redistribute pressure
- Easy stretches provide additional relief