Ergonomics

 What is Ergonomics ?

    Ergonomics is defined as the science of fitting a workplace to the user's needs. Ergonomics aim to reduce discomfort while increasing efficiency and productivity. It also takes into account the need to move throughout the day. Movements such as stretching and standing up are tied into ergonomics. Maintaining a healthy posture throughout the day is a key step in following ergonomic principle. Ergonomics draws on many disciplines to better the relationship between the work environment and the user.

Posture 

   While in a work environment, it is beneficial to maintain a healthy posture.  A neutral posture is when the body is aligned and balanced, either while sitting or standing. This position places minimal stress on the body and keeps the joints aligned. The opposite of a neutral posture is an awkward posture. An awkward posture is performed by exerting an extreme range of motion, leaving the neutral posture.

Neutral Posture
(Chatelaine)

Movement 

    Involving movement throughout the day will maintain a healthy ergonomic balance. Working for a long time without movement can cause fatigue to the body. That is also known as static load and caused by staying in a station position for too long. To prevent static load, stretching is a good practice as it reduces fatigue and improves muscular balance and posture. Taking stretch breaks periodically throughout the work day gets the blood flowing and can restore energy.  

Overhead Shoulder Stretch
(Ergonomic Trends)

Lighting

    Having poor lighting can affect a person's work performance making it important for a healthy ergonomic balance. Offices that are dimly light or have glare can cause eye fatigue and headaches resulting in greater injury risk. Making sure the monitor isn't placed by a bright background or window will reduce glare. The need for better ergonomic lighting increases with age and can affect the ability to see clearly over time.

Bad Ergonomic Lighting 
(Thorn Lighting)

Good Ergonomic Practices

• Stretching
• Alternating between standing and sitting
• Taking mental breaks between hours of mental focusing
• Reducing excessive motion
• Maintaining neutral posture 
• Adequate Lighting

References 

• Office lighting - the good and the bad. Office Lighting - The Good and The Bad - English. (2018, April 5). https://www.thornlighting.com/en/news/office-lighting-the-good-and-the-bad

•     Corkery, L. (2019, November 25). Lighting ergonomics. Safety Services. https://safetyservices.ucdavis.edu/units/occupational-health/ergonomics/office-computer/lighting

• Rebecca GaoUpdated March 30, 2020. (2020, March 30). Basic ergonomics for your home office. Chatelaine. https://chatelaine.com/home-decor/home-office-ergonomics-faq/

• Middlesworth, M. (2019, March 7). Ergonomics 101: The definition, domains, and applications of Ergonomics. ErgoPlus. https://ergo-plus.com/ergonomics-definition-domains-applications/

• What is ergonomics? ergonomics in the workplace | humanscale. (n.d.). https://www.humanscale.com/ergonomics/what-is-ergonomics/