Ergonomics

Ergonomics is the science and study of work, the worker, and how job performance and health are influenced by the elements within a work environment. Application of ergonomic principles in the design of the workplace can improve the work environment’s safety, productivity and efficiency. 

Workstation Evaluations

The EHS department offers workstation evaluations to promote healthy workspaces, reduce discomfort and increase productivity. 

If you would like to schedule an evaluation, email safety@ohio.edu with your request.

Steps to a Workstation Evaluation

Observation: Gain an understanding of the function and manner job tasks are performed by the employee at the workstation and identify risk factors.

Analysis: Determine what causes any risk factors and how those risks effect comfort and productivity.

Training: Provide guidance to the employee on how to minimize risk factors, reduce the risk of injury, and improve workflow.

Recommendations for Computer Work

During continuous or prolonged computer work, organize your workstation to promote comfort and productivity. 

Seat Height: Adjust your chair so your feet rest flat on the floor, with knees bent at roughly 90 degrees. If your feet don’t reach the floor, use a footrest. 

Viewing Angle: The screen should be positioned at about 15 degrees below the horizontal line for comfortable viewing. The top of your screen should sit at just below eye level. This position helps keep the eyes in a neutral position and reduces the risk of neck strain. 

Monitor Position: Keep monitors about an arm’s length away. If using multiple monitors, place them at equal distance and height to avoid twisting your neck or spine. For laptops, consider using a laptop riser to maintain proper screen height.

Stress Relieving Exercises

Give joints and muscles a rest by taking periodic breaks and stretching.

Back

Stand and raise your right arm overhead, bending to one side. Count to five. Repeat on the opposite side. Do three times daily. 

Stand, supporting the lower back with hands, and gently arch backward. Count to five. Next, bend forward, placing hands on knees, and count to five. Do three times daily.

Neck

Lower your left ear to your shoulder. Slowly tuck chin to chest and roll head to the right until the right ear lowers to the shoulder. Repeat often during the day.

Shoulders

Circle your shoulders forward, then backward. Repeat often. 

Cross arms over chest and hold for a count of five. Leading with the elbows, push arms back and hold for five. Repeat often.

Hands & Wrists

Tightly clench your hands and then release, fanning out the fingers. Do this five times per hand. 

Rest your forearm on a tabletop. Grasp the fingers of one hand and gently bend back your wrist for five seconds. Repeat with other hand. 

Student Work Highlight

During the 2015 spring semester, four OU industrial & systems engineering students conducted an analysis of the height adjustable workstation. Their report can be viewed here [Word] and their assessment here [Powerpoint].