Ergonomics
WHAT IS ERGONOMICS?
One definition of ergonomics is: The study of workplace design and the physical and psychological impact it has on workers. Ergonomics is about the fit between people, their work activities, equipment, work systems and environment to ensure that workplaces are safe, comfortable, and efficient and that productivity is not comprised.
Simply put, it is designing office furniture to fit the worker not physically forcing the worker’s body to fit the job. For instance, an office chair, if fully ergonomic, should provide adjustments so that each person can be fitted correctly with height adjustment, lumbar support, proper arm support, and depth of seat and sometimes correct neck support.
According to OSHA Ergonomic Solutions (U. S. Department of Labor), there is no single “correct” posture or arrangement of components that will fit everyone. But, there are basic design goals. For example:
1. The top of monitor at or just below eye level
2. Head and neck balanced and in-line with torso
3. Shoulders relaxed elbows bent at a 90 degree angle when using keyboard.
4. Elbows close to body and supported
5. Lower back supported
6. Wrists and hands in line with forearms
7. Adequate room for keyboard and mouse
8. Feet flat on the floor, we recomend a raised tilting footrest
When The Back Store delivers an office chair locally we will adjust the chair for the customer so that it fits his or her body and work environment. We also will suggest ways to change their work environment to help our customer.
For purchases over the internet, there is a great website where you can get an ergonomic check list. Go to www.osha.gov
