Mastering Workplace Ergonomics (part 1)
Workplace ergonomics is the science of designing the workplace, keeping in mind the capabilities and limitations of the worker. Workplace ergonomics improvement processes remove risk factors that lead to musculoskeletal injuries and allow for improved human performance and productivity.
Again, healthy posture is a key factor when mastering your workplace ergonomics because it’s important to maintain a healthy posture as much as possible throughout the day. Spending a lot of hours sitting and working when your posture isn’t ideal, can lead to back pain from straining your neck and other muscles. Slumping or slouching forward, resting your chin on one hand while you read, leaning forward, and hunching over your keyboard are poor posture positions that can cause problems. Poor posture can lead to musculoskeletal disorders and back pain such as: carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, ruptured or herniated disc, and overall muscle weakness. By mastering your workplace ergonomics you can increase work productivity and enjoyment while reducing the risk of injury and pain.
Solution #1- Choose the right chair
Finding a suitable chair is arguably the most important piece of the ergonomic workspace puzzle. According to research, and estimated 50% of people in the industrialized world suffer from some form of back pain, many directly related to poor seat design.
Just as a good mattress is important, a good chair is JUST as important when you are spending 8 to 15 hours per day sitting. Any chair that is less than ideal is just begging for back pain down the road.
Important factors to consider:
Height – You should be able to sit with your feet flat on the floor and your thighs roughly parallel to the floor.
Lumbar support – The backrest should have a natural curve to support your lower back.
Seat depth – For fixed seats, the ideal depth is 16.5″, and 14-18.5″ for adjustable seats.
Arm rests – They should serve as guidelines to keep your forearms at a comfortable height but shouldn’t be used to rest your arms on them as you type.
Material – Comfortable cushioning: should feel supportive with breathable fabric.
Swivel and mobility – If you need mobility to do your daily tasks, make sure your chair moves freely. Casters should be designed to work with your flooring, whether it’s carpet or a hard surface.
*The more adjustability a chair offers, the more likely it will work for you. Even with the perfect ergonomic office chair, ideally you’ll want to modify your sitting position from time to time to allow blood flow to evenly reach all parts of your body.
-Mastering Workplace Ergonomics will continue in a complete 5 step solution layout.