WORKPLACE WELLNESS

Ten helpful hints to a healthier and more productive workplace.

RERGOMONICS AT A GLANCE Ergonomics is the applied science of design—especially in the workplace—intended to make products more comfortable and user-friendly, particularly during extended use. Polish professor Wojciech Jastrzebowski coined the word in 1857 in a philosophical narrative “based upon the truths drawn from the Science of Nature.” The word is derived from the Greek “ergon” (work) and “nomos” (laws).

How we sit, type, swipe, point and click—and the products we use to do these things—can affect our daily performance and long-term health. In fact, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), an arm of the U.S. government, believes ergonomics to be so important to health that last year it formed a national advisory committee dedicated to reducing the number of ergonomic-related injuries and illnesses in the workplace.

A survey initiated by Microsoft Hardware found the U.S. work force is spending more time in front of the computer than ever before. While one in three office computer users indicated they spend between four and six hours a day using the computer, nearly half said they were spending eight or more hours a day at the computer.

Nearly two-thirds of office computer users tie the fatigue they experience during the week to working at the computer for long periods. In addition, nine out of 10 said the design setup of their workstation directly affects their ability to be most productive. More than 50% of those surveyed said one of the best ways employers can show their commitment to employers’ success is to provide them with the latest technologies so they can do their jobs more efficiently. This compares with 23% who said they would prefer motivational tools such as morale-building and social outings, and 16% would opt for perks such as free soda and parking, which are commonly offered in workplaces today.

How does your home office fare? Is it ergonomic? Are you giving yourself the best and most comfortable computer experience you can imagine? The folks at Microsoft put together 10 steps to a better and healthier workplace. See if you can implement these tips in your home office.

Conduct an ergonomic assessment.
Consider contracting an ergonomic specialist who can assess your workstation needs on an individual basis and help you implement ergonomic solutions. These specialists can be great resources when considering which products to purchase.


Make seating comfortable and adjustable.
Good posture is important to comfort and well-being. You don’t have to spend thousands of dollars on a chair. Look for something comfortable that allows a user to adjust the height, backrest, and armrests to suit his or her body type. An office chair should support the lower back. Feet should reach the floor (if not, a foot rest will help).


Select a good monitor.
Purchase a good quality computer screen. Make sure the text characters on the screen look sharp, are high in contrasts (e.g., black on white), and are a comfortable viewing size. Monitors should be placed at a comfortable height that doesn’t make users tilt theirs excessively up or down. When seated comfortably, a user’s eyes should be in line with the top of the display (about 2-3” below the top of the monitor casing).


Use ergonomic keyboards and mice.
You spend a good part of your day with your hands on a mouse and keyboard. Ergonomic input devices are designed for comfortable posture, reducing repetition, and minimizing forces. Consider purchasing mice and keyboards that have been designed by ergonomists (microsoft.com/hardware).


Properly position keyboards and mice.
Place keyboard and mouse at the same height, about elbow level. Center keyboards in front of users with mice as close as possible. Upper arms should fall relaxed at sides.


Utilize software and hardware tools.
Work efficiency can be improved by effectively using the software and hardware features that ship with ergonomic keyboards and mice. Many keyboards and mice come with hot keys, wheels, programmable options, and other short-cuts for improved productivity.


Improve lighting.
In the computerized office, workstation lighting should be lower than traditional industrial workplaces. Desk lamps can supplement lighting for more visually intensive tasks such as reading paper documents.


Get proper training.
New equipment is accompanied by both excitement and responsibility. To best understand these new tools, one needs to learn how to properly set up and use them. Take breaks during the day to exercise mind and body.


Health management.
Make sure you are on top of your health; stay current with all of the latest insurance offers, compensation claims. Make sure you receive medical checkups on a regular basis.


Stay committed.
Now that you have embarked on your program of workplace wellbeing, stick to it. Make a commitment to your health and watch profits soar.

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