Computer Ergonomics

 TOOLBOX TALK-GENERAL

Introduction:-

Over the past few decades, computer-based

 technology has become indispensable in most 

offices. Along with the proliferation of the 

technology, concern about healthy, safe, and 

comfortable use of computers has emerged. 

Symptoms:

#  Muscular Discomfort- pain, aching, loss of 

coordination, numbness, and stiffness.

#  Eye Strain- headaches, dizziness, nausea.

Preventative Ergonomic Guidelines:

Monitor Configuration:

#  Depth- The monitor should be arms length 

away from you while seated.

#  Height- The toolbar at the top of the screen 

should fall just below eye level; this allows 

the user to view the screen without causing neck

 strain from repetitive moving.

Keyboard and Mouse Configuration:

# Keyboard- The keyboard should be set to a 

height so your forearms are parallel to the 

floor and make a 90 ° to 110 ° angle with the 

upper arm. This should allow you to freely 

type without resting your wrists on ANY hard or

 soft surface. Most desks require an 

adjustable keyboard tray to accomplish this.

#  Mouse- The mouse should be located on the 

same plane as the key board (keyboard trays 

should have a mouse caddy to accommodate the

 mouse). Determine which mouse causes the 

least strain on your wrist (conventional, 

trackball, etc).

Chair Configuration:

#  Depth (Seat Pan)- The seat pan should leave 

roughly a 2-3 finger space between the end of

 the seat and the back of your legs.

#  Height- The chair should be at a height that

 allows you to place your feet flat on the floor 

with your thighs perpendicular to your lower 

legs.

#  Lumbar Support- The lumbar support on the 

chair should contour and rest against the 

small of your back.

#  Backrest Tilt- the Backrest should be at a 90 °

 to 110 ° angle when typing.

Preventative Exercise:

#  Get up and walk around to stretch your legs for

 a few minutes on an as needed basis.

# Stretch- wrist, arms, and back periodically 

while at your workstation.