Ergonomics in the Workplace

'Ergonomics in the workplace' Ever heard of this phrase? Sometime somewhere in some context, maybe it has passed you by. But what exactly does it mean? And what are its benefits that everyone keeps talking about? Let's understand the concept of ergonomics first. To put it simply it is the manner in which all aspects of the job fit you rather than you fitting into your job. It stresses on answering what work involves and what are the things that one can do to work better. This includes factors such as physical and environmental that affect the senses and body.

Importance of Ergonomics at the Workplace

So why is it important to practice ergonomics? Let's just say that if you don't, you are putting yourself at a risk of suffering from muscle-skeletal injury and compromising work quality. Pay close attention to the remainder of this article if your work involves long hours sitting at a desk in front of a computer or receiving calls.

There are two types of factors that can affect our health - the physical and the environmental. The physical factors involve the position that you sit in, the way you type or look at the computer and any other motions involved. The environmental factors include noise pollution, air quality or poor lighting. Ergonomics are adopted so that you can eliminate these factors which directly lead to lowering one's work efficiency and cause several health complications. So ergonomics are adopted so that it keeps one healthy, increases productivity and efficiency, maintains quality and boosts the general morale of the work force.

Following Ergonomics

Work Area Specifics
Make sure that your work area is large enough so that it allows you enough space to sit comfortably and allows for a full range of motion. If you're sitting cramped, like your elbows or feet are touching someone beside you, it means that you are contracting your muscles and not allowing them the space they need. The correct posture is always an erect back, feet flat on the ground or a footrest, thighs horizontal and forearms and hands in a straight line.

Chair
Along with an ergonomic desk, you need to have a proper computer office chair as well. These days there are special chairs available that are especially prepared to suit an individual's needs. Ask your office if they can provide you with that. If not, make sure that your chair has a straight back. It should not lean back. Support your lower back with a pillow and do not slump.

Lighting
The lighting should not be too bright nor too dim, as either of which will cause a strain on your eyes and cause eye problems. If you're working on some files, make sure you have a light who's source if directly from the top so that there is no formation of shadows. If you're working on a computer, make sure that you do not sit facing an open window because the screen light and window light are of two different degrees and will cause you to complain about eyes tired from computer.

Computer Basics
You laptop or computer should be best used when it is placed on a desk. The distance should be at least 20-30 inches away and the settings should be such that the screen is not too bright. The ergonomic keyboards should be in a position such that your arms are parallel to the thighs. The wrist should not be resting on the tray and you should not hit the keys too hard while typing. The computer mouse should be within easy reach, you should not have to bend forward to use it.

Noise
Noise as small the buzzing of a photocopy machine or a colleague talking on the phone can affect your efficiency. If your work requires quiet, make sure you demand for it by putting some policies in place.

Breaks and Exercises
It is crucial that you take 5 minute breaks every hour. This will allow your muscles to stretch and relax. Along with that, consciously blink your eyes as this will prevent the eye from drying and causing multiple eye problems like itchiness, burning and dryness. Do some eye exercises to improve vision and strengthen it further. Rotate you neck in place to get rid of the built up tension and strain as well.

And now that you know why ergonomics in the workplace is important and how you should go about following it, march into your work place with a renewed sense of work ethics and regain that efficiency! All the best!