According to Webster’s Dictionary, ergonomics is 1 : an applied science concerned with designing and arranging things people use so that the people and things interact most efficiently and safely —called also biotechnology, human engineering, human factors 2: the design characteristics of an object resulting especially from the application of the science of ergonomics.
So what does that mean? Well, it means that there is a whole science dedicated to learning how proper form in the workplace can make you more productive and keep you safe from injury. When you think of work related injuries, your first thought is probably construction workers, but don’t think that because you sit at a desk you are safe from workplace injuries.
The most common office workplace injuries are caused by physical stress and strain and can be contributed to sitting in the same position for an extended period of time, making repetitive movements, or overuse. These injuries can affect muscles, nerves, tendons, joints, blood vessels and your spine. Most often the injuries cause pain in the back, hands, wrists, arms, neck or shoulders.
What can you do to help prevent these workplace injuries? You can make sure that the way you work, and your office space, is as ergonomic as possible. For starters, try to place your work in front of you and sit tall while you work, try to change your sitting position often, and take breaks to stretch or get out of your chair every 30 minutes.
There is also a new phenomenon in the ergonomics world called “Deskercise”. It is a whole series of exercises you can do in your office or cubical! Here’s one of my favorites:
The “weeeee” Desk Chair Wheel: While seated in a chair with wheels, position yourself at arm’s length from a desk or table and grasp its edge with your hands. Next, engage the core, raise the feet slightly off the ground, and pull with your arms until the chair slowly rolls forward and your chest touches the desk’s edge. Then roll back by pushing away, with the feet still raised. Repeat 20 times. This exercise works your core.
Product manufacturers have also started making ergonomic products to help prevent workplace injuries. For instance, the products below are designed to help reduce stain and fatigue, and help keep you in the best working positions.
This adjustable footrest features an extra-wide platform allows more foot and leg movement. The adjustable height lets you set it at the right position unique to yourself. And it has slip-resistant material that helps keep your feet and the footrest from slipping. (Item# MMMFR330CB)
The high-profile design of this backrest maintains the back’s natural curve and promotes neutral posture while seated and comes with an adjustable strap holds cushion in desired position. Plus, the covering is removable for easy cleaning. (Item # FEL91926)
To help prevent strain on your writs, use a wrist rest to keep them in a neutral position while typing. The gel-filled Lycra surface conforms to wrists and palms for soothing comfort, and the nonskid base holds wrist pad firmly in place on desk. (Item# CCS23717)
A monitor stand is important to help keep your neck in a neutral position, and to reduce strain on your eyes. This monitor stand lets you set the monitor height to match your personal comfort by snapping one or two risers into place. The height adjusts to one of three vertical settings without tools, and can support any monitor up to 21″ and 80 lb. (Item# KMW60089)
If you have any questions on any of these products, please contact your Customer Service Representative (CSR). Unsure who your CSR is? Just call 800-532-0335, and we will be happy to help!
~Macey Thomas
ECommerce/Marketing Assistant, FSIoffice
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