* Making comfortable and safe environments.
Ergonomics is the science of creating tools and work areas which
increase human productivity by means of decreasing fatigue and
discomfort. Ergonomics comes into play with everything we do.
Such as work, sports, leisure, health, and safety. Any tool we
interact with should be built to be compatible with the needs,
abilities, and limitations of people.
* Ergonomics is also called biotechnology,
human engineering, and human factors engineering.
* Here is an indepth Wikipedia article
on the topic: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ergonomics
Can I see visual examples
of how to sit at the computer?
* Improper or prologued keyboard use
will cause injury.
* Viewing the monitor screen too long
will cause eye strain and injury.
* Following all instructions here is
100% vital to your health and longterm comfort.
* (Unrelated tip), Unplug electrical
equipment before electrical storm. Have all files backed up continually.
* This article hopes to prevent: Back
and eye injury, Carpal tunnel syndrome, Stress, Repetitive strain
injury, etc.
What are the steps to a
comfortable and safe sitting posture?
* Reduce eye movements via a paper-holder
attached closly at side of monitor when typing out a paper.
* Head straight with spine.
* Shoulders relaxed. Forearms level or
tilted up very slightly. Elbows close to body.
* Thighs horizontal. Room between legs
and underside of desk.
* Feet resting flat on floor. Ensure
the weight of your legs is on your feet and not on the front
of your chair seat. Adjust chair hight or use footrest.
* Monitor screen at or slightly below
eye level. Keep the monitor 18 to 24 inches away from your eyes.
* Monitor elevated on stand. Adjust for
tilt and screen brightness to surrounding room. Minimize glare
if desired.
* Monitor and keyboard centered in front
of user. Keyboard at elbow hight.
* Brightly lit environment to protect
eyes.
* Use chair providing proper lumbar support
for your spine (lower back). This is extremely vital.
* Wrists relaxed and flat. Keep forearms
horizontal with wrists in neutral, comfortable position for using
keyboard and mouse. Allow upper arms to hang naturally at your
sides.
* Leave desk space to rest hands.
* Vary work activities. Organize your
work to eliminate prolonged typing. After typing, do something
that uses both hands.
* Keep your work desk clean of obstructions
and cords that may interfere with comfort and safety.
* Stretch! Get up and exercise every
half hour to keep blood circulation flowing. Drink water and
keep your nutrients in check. Five minutes on the treadmill works
well.