Ergonomics deals with the compatibility between workers and their work.When work is unmatched to the worker’s body, there is usuallydiscomfort,fatigue, painand subsequently,injury.

Adequate environmental conditions are important for the overall well-being of workers and productivity.When the work area is too cold or too hot,poorly lit,noisy,poorly ventilated, or contains unpleasant odour,it results inannoyance, stress,fatigue,eyestrain,headache, which may lead to other conditions. Injuries and illnesses related to poor ergonomi cconditions can be prevented b ymaking the workplace and the work organization fit the physical and mental ability of each individual worker.

Let’s get practical

Maame is a receptionist. Much of her work involves using a telephone to take messages and redirect calls to appropriate departments. She regularly uses a computer to make appointments, record messages and respond to e-mails.

After work, Maame found she had an aching shoulder and neck with sore eyes and a headache. 

The risk assessment identified the following areas for improvement:

·         Maame would often hold the telephone between her shoulder and ear while talking on the phone and typing a message on the computer. She regularly adopts this awkward, static, strained posture during her working day.

·         Computer screen was difficult to read because of glare and reflections from light through the window.

·         The screen is poorly positioned - it is too high/low/close/far from the worker, or is offset to one side. The mouse is placed too far away and requires stretching to use.

·         Chairs are not properly adjusted to fit the person, forcing awkward and uncomfortable postures.

·         There is glare on the screen from overhead lights or windows, increasing the risk of eyestrain.

Any remedy?

Sitting and chair design – given the fact that many jobs require an employee to sit for many hours per day; the following sitting tips are recommended:

·         Feet should rest flat on the floor or a footrest should be provided

·         Legs should remain uncrossed

·         A small gap should remain between the back of the knees and the front of the seat

·         Backrests should be adjustable to support the low- and mid-back

Standing and posture – for those jobs that require standing positions for long periods, certain factors can minimize stress and strain. These include:

·         Availability of a foot stool to place one foot higher than the other

·         A shock-absorbing, stable surface to stand upon

·         Proper footwear that is comfortable and biomechanically supportive

·         Working surfaces that are the proper height to minimize bending or stooping

·         Keeping knees slightly bent can take some stress off the joints

Now, take a few minutes to try this out.

Back/SideStretch

Purpose: To relax the back and side muscles

Middle/UpperBackStretch

Purpose: To stretch upper and middle back muscles.

Hold your right arm with your left handj ust above the elbow.Gently push your elbow toward your left shoulder.Hold stretch for 5 seconds.Repeat on left arm.

BackCurl

Purpose: To stretch lower back and legs.

Grasp shin.Lift leg off the floor.Bend forward (curling the back), reaching nose toward the knee. Repeat with the other leg.

ShoulderRoll

Purpose: To relax shoulder muscles.

Slowly roll your shoulders backward five times in a circular motion.Then roll shoulders forward.

Go on to work! You are well relaxed.

By Dr. Marcus Manns