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Ergonomics

When you are thinking about an ergonomic plan for your business, there are two elements to consider: “static work” and “force.” “Static work" refers to the musculoskeletal effort required to hold a certain position. For example, when we sit and work at computers. “Force” refers to the amount of tension our muscles generate. An increase of force required to hold a position can increase in muscular tension necessary to support that body part.

Understand your employee's capabilities in relationship to work demands and minimize unnecessary static work and reduce the forces acting on the body. This can reduce the risk of injury to our employees.

Here are some helpful tips to consider:

Your office workstations:

Your employees should be educated on the proper positioning of the items used within their respective environments.

Think about these ideas for the office workstation:

  1. Place all regularly used items in close proximity to reduce twisting and unnaturally positions.
  2. A computer monitor should be positioned directly in-front of the employee.
  3. The monitor should be set at the proper height which is at eye-level or slightly below.
  4. The mouse and keyboard should be positioned directly in-front of the employee.
  5. The employee's weight should be evenly distributed on their seat.
  6. The workstation chair should be at the proper height, so the feet are firmly resting on the floor.
  7. The chair armrests should be in a neutral alignment to the keyboard and mouse.
  8. Allow the the employ to conduct simple exercises to relieve or reduced tension or stress 
    build-up.

Lifting Procedures:

To avoid injuries to the back and other areas, the employee should be instructed on the proper ways to life heavy objects.

Here are some training tips:

  1. Place your feet apart in a way that provides a wide base of support before lifting.
  2. Do not bend from the waist as this puts too much stress on the back.
  3. Bend from the knees into a squatting position and use your legs to lift objects.
  4. Keep the object that you are lifting close to your body.
  5. Do not twist or jerk quickly while lifting objects.
  6. Take your time and don't lift items that you are not capable of handling.
  7. Be aware of your weight lifting capabilities and don't hesitate to get assistance if needed.
  8. Test an object for weight prior to lifting by pushing up against it, or attempting to push on it.