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Introduction
Individuals who use computers for extended periods of time may experience
eye fatigue and pain or discomfort in the hands, wrists, arms, shoulders,
neck or back. This is usually caused by poor work habits, poor work station
design or improper use of workstation components. In most cases, corrective
measures are relatively simple and inexpensive.
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Scope and Application
While the guidelines described in this program may benefit anyone
who uses a computer, they are primarily intended for
individuals
using desktop computers. Most of the guidelines will not apply to laptop
computers which are designed only for short-term use and cannot be
sufficiently
adjusted.
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Program Description
Workstation Assessment
A survey of actual computer use will help supervisors determine which
workstations and individuals should be targeted for further evaluation.
Highest priority should be given to those individuals who experience
symptoms and spend more than 2 hours per day at a computer. The workstation
evaluation should be completed with the individual at the workstation
following the ergonomic guidelines below. An employee handout, Ergonomic
Suggestions for Your Comfort, may be referenced, duplicated and given
to the individual during the evaluation.
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Ergonomic Guidelines
The following guidelines are intended to help supervisors understand
and reduce health risks associated with computer workstations. Since
no two bodies are identical, different styles, models, and sizes of
furniture and accessories may be needed. Since a wide variety of products
are available to suit individual and departmental needs, no specific
product recommendations are made here. Consult with the Purchasing
Office for the latest product information. The best results are
usually achieved when the individual is involved in the selection process.
- The work surface should be of sufficient area to accommodate the
computer and all associated materials. There should be adequate space
beneath this surface for the operator’s legs and feet.
- The keyboard and mouse should be directly in front of the operator
at a height that favors a neutral posture (23 to 28 inches). When
placed at standard desk height of 30 inches, keyboards and input devices are too high for
most people. Raising the chair solves this problem for some individuals.
An adjustable keyboard platform with mouse deck is usually the best
solution. The objective is a posture with upper arms relaxed and wrists
straight in line with the forearm. Wrist rests may also help and are
built into most keyboard holders. For some people alternative keyboard
and mouse designs may need to be considered.
- The monitor should be positioned at a distance of approximately
arm’s length and directly in front of the operator. The top
of the screen should be no higher than eye level. A monitor placed
on top of the computer can easily be lowered by relocating the computer.
Many flat-screen monitors are height adjustable, stackable monitor blocks can be used to achieve the desired height.
Adjustable monitor arms enable easy height adjustment for workstations
with multiple users.
- A well designed chair will favorably affect posture, circulation,
the amount of effort required to maintain good posture, and the amount
of strain on the back. Desired features of a chair include: pneumatic seat height adjustment, back height adjustment, seat depth adjustment (either by moving the back of the chair or moving the seat pan), 360 degree swivel. Tilt is not necessarily recommeded, and if a chair has tilt, it should also be equipped with tilt lock. Armrests are not recommended
for computer use.
- Additional accessories can improve operator comfort. Document holders
can minimize eye, neck and shoulder strain by positioning the document
close to the monitor. A footrest should be used where the feet cannot
be placed firmly on the floor. Task lamps will illuminate source documents
when room lighting is reduced.
- Glare should be eliminated through methods that include reduction
of room lighting; shielding windows with shades, curtains or blinds;
positioning the terminal at a right angle to windows; and tilting
the monitor to avoid reflection from overhead lighting. Glare screens
are not normally necessary.
- All computer users should receive basic training in potential health
effects that may result from poor posture and work habits, early warning
symptoms, workstation adjustment, and other self-help protective measures.
Supervisors should receive similar training to easily recognize problems
and know what corrective measures to take. Training sessions are available
through EHS.
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Roles and Responsibilities
Department
- Survey the workplace to identify individuals at risk.
- Plan ahead for workstation improvement expense in annual budgets.
- Plan for all workstation components before purchasing new or replacement
computers.
- Call EHS at 258-5294 for ergonomic evaluations and training.
- Order needed workstation components from Purchasing.
Supervisor
- Instruct computer operators on workstation adjustment and proper
posture.
- Arrange workload to provide for alternative work breaks.
- Be aware of and watch for signs and symptoms of injury.
- Refer employees with injury symptoms to the Office of Employee
Health.
- Refer students with injury symptoms to University
Health Services.
- Request help from referral sources as needed.
EHS
- Evaluate workstation ergonomics upon request.
- Provide group training upon request.
Individual
- Adjust work station components to maintain a neutral posture.
- Use accessories as recommended in training and instruction.
- Report work station and physical problems to supervisor promptly.
Employee Health
- Provide medical evaluations, consultations and treatment.
Purchasing
- Provide specific product information and recommendations.
- Purchase furniture and accessories (including installation).
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For More Information
- Contact EHS,
Safety Engineer at 258-5294 to schedule a review of your workstation
or for
additional information.
- A Computer Workstation Self-Audit Checklist is available through
EHS may be downloaded either as a PDF
or a customizable Word
document.
- Refer to the Furniture Standards Manual published by the Purchasing
Office for information on furniture and ergonomic accessories.
- Furniture and accessories currently available are on display in the
Purchasing Office at 2 New South. Call 258-6274 for an appointment.
- Free surplus furniture is available through Building Services. The
warehouse at 755 Alexander Street is open 9:00 am to 12:00 pm on Tuesdays, no appointment
necessary.
- Links to other Computer Workstation information sources on
the web are available by clicking here.
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Contents
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