Ergonomics is a crucial aspect of office design, as it helps to prevent injuries and improve productivity. However, despite its importance, many people make common mistakes when setting up their office ergonomics. In this blog post, we will briefly explore some of the most common errors people make and provide tips on how to avoid them.
One of the most common mistakes people make is not adjusting their chair properly. Many people sit too high, causing their feet to dangle and putting strain on their legs and back. Others sit too low, causing their shoulders to hunch and putting strain on their neck and upper back. To avoid this mistake, make sure to adjust your chair so that your upper body and shoulders are relaxed, forearms are parallel with the desk surface, your feet are flat on the floor and your knees are at a 90-degree angle. You can use a footrest if needed.
Another common mistake is not adjusting the height of the computer monitor. Many people position their monitor too high or too low, which can cause neck and eye strain. The top of large modern monitors should be slightly above eye level to prevent neck strain and the monitor should be placed about an arm’s length away from your face.
Many people also make the mistake of using the wrong keyboard and mouse. A poorly designed keyboard or mouse can cause wrist and hand strain, leading to conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome. To avoid this mistake, make sure the keyboard is not too angled, or use an ergonomic keyboard and mouse that are designed to reduce strain on your wrist and hand.
Additionally, people often forget to take regular breaks. Sitting in the same position for prolonged periods can cause strain on the back, neck, and eyes. To avoid this mistake, take regular breaks to stand up and move around, and consider setting a reminder on your phone or computer to remind you to take a break.
Finally, many people make the mistake of not considering the lighting in the room. Poor lighting can cause eye strain, headaches, and fatigue. To avoid this mistake, make sure that the room is well-lit and that the light source is not directly behind the computer screen. Angling of the monitor can help too.
Setting up an ergonomic office is crucial for preventing injuries and improving productivity. By following the tips outlined in this blog post, you can avoid these mistakes and create a comfortable and safe workspace for you and your team. Remember to adjust your chair, monitor, keyboard and mouse and take regular breaks, and consider the lighting in the room. By doing so, you can create a healthier and more productive work environment.
If you need an individual ergonomic workstation assessment please contact us on 0409 512 434 or send an email to info@ergoexperts.com.au
