Workplace ergonomics (page 1 of 4)

The building in which you work is as important as the ergonomic surroundings you work in. Employers need to take in to consideration all areas and aspects of the workplace and how with planning they will undoubtedly create a happier, healthier office and generate greater return on their human investment.

Workplace solutions providers, Kinnarps of Sweden, have seen that all too often the wrong office set-up can have a dramatic effect on company's bottom line. The Healthy Workplace Campaign was established through their desire to alert every employer and employee to the facts. By teaming up with the support team at the Osteopathic Health Centre in Dubai they aim to draw your attention to problems and solutions, reinforce the facts and enlighten you with regards to creating a healthy workplace.

What are good ergonomics in the workplace?
The simple answer is to make sure that the body is not compromised at all in the work place. Ensure your body position and posture is conducive to comfort and that you have minimal distraction from physical discomfort. This correct use of the body in the workplace is simply called 'correct ergonomics'.


In the office:

To achieve correct ergonomics and reduce the risk of Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI), which if not considered can lead to crippling disorders, try the following helpful tips.

TIP 1:
Feet: At your desk, make sure your feet can rest solidly and comfortably on the floor while sitting. Use an adjustable work surface and chair that allow your feet to rest firmly on the floor, or use a footrest.

TIP 2:
Knees: Be sure you have sufficient space under your work surface for your knees and legs. Avoid concentrated pressure points along the underside of your thigh near the knee and the backside of your lower leg. Stretch your legs and vary your leg posture throughout the day.

TIP 3:
Legs: Get up from your desk frequently and take brief walks. Make sure you vary your leg positions throughout the day. Avoid placing boxes or other items under your desk that limit your legroom.

TIP 4:
Legs: Do not sit with legs crossed as this can cause the pelvis to twist over an extended period of time.

TIP 5:
Posture: Sitting still for long periods can cause discomfort and muscle fatigue. Within your comfort zone, change postures often throughout the day. Pay particular attention to adjusting your posture in the afternoon when you may tend to get fatigued.

TIP 6:
Posture: Take frequent short breaks: stand up, carefully stretch, or walk around. Frequently switch to brief tasks that require getting up, such as retrieving output from a printer, filing paperwork, or consulting a colleague down the hall.

TIP 7:
Sitting: The seat should be tilted forward slightly so that the edge of the seat does not dig into the back of the thigh. If necessary a wedge shaped cushion could be placed on the chair, with the wider end at the back of the chair. This will help the seated person to seat with the pelvis correctly
aligned. The feet should be flat on the floor, directly beneath the knees. Tucking the legs under the seat causes congestion at the back of the knees and in some cases can create extreme discomfort in the knees.

TIP 8:
Lower Back: Use your chair to fully support your body.