The Critical Nature Of Computer Ergonomics
Computer ergonomics is the study of equipment design for workstations aimed at reducing fatigue and discomfort that plague relatively sedentary workers. The study of ergonomics helps to promote worker efficiency, maximize productivity and cut down on absenteeism, as well as medical expenses. Ergonomic seating, mouse pads, lighting, desk organizers or wrist braces that can reduce the risk of injuries, like carpal tunnel syndrome, lower back injury, eye strain, fatigue, migraine headaches, work-related upper limb disorder and musculoskeletal disorder.
One need only look at some recent statistics to learn the importance of computer ergonomics. Back injuries account for 33% of all workplace injuries, according to OSHA. Ten years ago, only heavy lifters reported back injuries, but today they are caused by people sitting at computers at work. Just three hours in front of a computer each day can increase health risks of tension headaches, low back pains, psychosocial stress, computer vision syndrome and occupational overuse syndrome, studies indicate.
As a result, computer workstations with ergonomic furniture have gained widespread popularity around the world. For example, there are special keyboards for typing designed to reduce muscle strain. Some keyboards split the keys up, with different elevated sections to increase the range of motion. Others are fixed at a certain elevated position to the user’s hands aren’t so bent while typing.
A special ergonomic chair with a tilt function helps workers stretch their backs and change postures throughout the day to allow different muscle groups a chance to relax. Adjustable computer workstation ergonomics gives individuals the ability to change their postures frequently by moving trash cans, document folders and mouse pads around. There are even laptop attachments, like a different type of mouse and monitor.
Computer ergonomics awareness is increasing in the US as more employers implement some of the following safety tips into their training plans. (After all, a workforce that understands “what is ergonomics” will naturally be more productive!) For instance, workers are told to move their chair up and down a few times a day and look away from the computer screen every twenty minutes, staring at something twenty feet away for 20 seconds. Leaning back in the chair can improve back support. Elbows should be kept at 90-degree angles, with wrists held in a neutral position (not tilted). When using the mouse, the elbow should be the pivot point and the wrist should be kept straight. Monitor screens should be turned up to avoid eye strain. Task lights are also an excellent way to reduce eyestrain, headaches and fatigue. Footrests provide great benefits for the legs and lower back as well. It is important to consider all of these tips before health issues arise down the road.
More and more people spend long hours at a desk, which has led to increased problems with back and leg pain due to improper body alignment. Many people have switched to ergonomic kneeling chairs to get relief for these problems. Kneeling chair reviews can help you find the chair you need. Find out more at the Best Ergonomic Chairs site.
