How to make your Workplace more ergonomic!

23 Apr How to make your Workplace more ergonomic!

Computers are ubiquitous – we use PCs, laptops, tablets, our phones and our watches! We use them everywhere we go too: on work desks, in our home office, on public transport, in cafes, on the beach, on the couch, in bed…

As you can imagine, we don’t always use computers in ways that minimise musculoskeletal pain and overuse injuries. Today, Ian gives us some pointers to make our workplace more ergonomic – reducing the risk of overuse injury.

Why are workplace ergonomics so important?

When computers were rolled out into workplaces in the late 1990’s there was a significant increase in RSI (repetitive strain injury), which was caused by incorrect workplace set up. These injuries still appear in various guises today – although we’ve learned a lot about workplace set up, we’ve also started using laptops and other portable devices which are causing new issues.

How can I change my workspace simply and cost-effectively?

Great question. There are many things that you can do to improve your workplace setup, without spending a fortune. Why not try:

• Locating your keyboard so your wrist, arms and shoulders are relaxed when you’re seated
• Using an ergonomic chair or a cushion to adjust your height
• Raising the monitor height by placing it on a book or stand
• Raising the laptop on a book or stand, and using a separate keyboard and mouse to improve your posture

Is there anything else we can do at work to decrease our risk of RSI?

Definitely. I recommend that you stand up and move at regular intervals during the day.  Our ability to concentrate fully on a task is usually limited to 45-60 minutes before there’s a loss of focus, so getting up and moving will reset your concentration AND stop the body from becoming stiff and sore from sitting too long.