Ergonomics
Ergonomics is the scientific discipline of designing or arranging workplaces, products, and systems so they match the physical and mental capabilities of the people who use them. It aims to maximize safety, comfort, and efficiency while preventing Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) e.g. back pain and carpal tunnels.
The table below shows some examples of common bad ergonomics in the work place and the related Musculoskeletal diseases;
| Examples of bad ergonomic practices. |
Associated Musculoskeletal disorders. |
|
| 1 | Poor Chair Setup: Lacking lumbar support or having a chair height that prevents feet from resting flat on the floor. | Low Back pain |
| 2 | Monitor Issues: Placing monitors too low, forcing the neck to bend down, or too high, forcing the neck to look up. | Neck strain |
| 3 |
Awkward Typing: Using a keyboard or mouse with wrists bent upward or sideways, |
Carpal Tunnel syndrome |
| 4 |
Prolonged Sitting: Staying in one position for long periods (sedentary work) without taking breaks to walk around. |
Back pain/strain |
| 5 |
Manual Handling: Lifting heavy objects by bending the back instead of the knees, or twisting while lifting. |
Shoulder pain and weakness,
|
| 6 | Repetitive Motion: Performing the same manual task, such as lifting, pushing, or pulling, continually without rest. | Back strain and tendinitis |
| 7 | Inadequate Lighting: Working in dimly lit areas or facing severe screen glare. | Eye strain, headaches. |
Key ergonomics principles for workplaces.
- Using a chair that supports the lower back (lumbar), with feet flat on the floor or a footrest.
- Position the monitor screen/ laptop roughly an arm's length away, with the top of the monitor at or slightly below eye level to minimize neck strain.
- Keep wrists straight and elbows at a 90-degree angle, with the keyboard and mouse at a height that prevents shoulder shrugging.
- Reduce glare by positioning screens perpendicular to windows or using anti-glare screen filters.
- Bend at the knees, not the waist, and keep items close to the body, avoiding twisting motions.
- Take regular, short breaks to stretch and change positions to avoid prolonged, static postures
- Keep frequently used items within close reach to prevent overreaching.
Benefits of work ergonomics
- Reduces Injury Risk: Minimizes incidents of carpal tunnel syndrome, back pain, and tendonitis caused by repetitive strain or poor posture.
- Enhanced Productivity: Comfortable employees are more focused, efficient, and less distracted by pain or discomfort.
- Lowered Costs: Reduces workers' compensation claims, medical expenses, and absenteeism related to injuries.
- Improved Employee Morale: Demonstrates a commitment to safety and well-being, leading to higher job satisfaction and lower turnover.
- Improved Quality of Work: When fatigue and discomfort are minimized, workers make fewer mistakes, increasing output quality.