Office ergonomics: tips to help reduce injury in the office

You might know the importance of ‘good posture’ and that too much sitting is unhealthy, but do you know how a computer workstation should be set up to limit the chance of sprain and strain injuries? According to WorkCover Queensland, office ergonomics can help you be more comfortable at work, lower stress and reduce injuries caused by awkward positions and repetitive tasks. Here’s some of the advice from its website:

• Position the computer monitor so that you do not tilt or arch your head or back or twist your neck.
• Position your keyboard directly in front of you by pushing the keyboard back so that your forearms are supported on the front part of the desk when keying.
• Give yourself space. You should be able to use both your keyboard and mouse comfortably on the same level of the desk surface.
• Adjust your chair to suit you, including the lumbar support and backrest and the seat height and tilt.
• Sit closely to the desk and remove fixed armrests if they stop you from doing this.
• If you use a laptop for long periods of time, use a separate full-sized keyboard, mouse and monitor.

One of the key things to remember is to get up and move. You should stand up and walk around regularly to break up your sitting time. Walk to the printer, have a conversation with a colleague rather than phoning or emailing them, get another glass of water or have a walking or standing meeting.

These are just a few things to consider to minimise risk of injury in an office environment. For more information and guidelines, see www.worksafe.qld.gov.au.

Originally published here.