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What is ergonomics?
Ergonomics comes from two Greek words ERGOS (work) and NOMOS (natural law).
Loosely translated, it means the rules of work. Essentially, ergonomics is the
science of designing the job to fit the worker, rather than physically forcing
the worker’s body to fit the job. Many people think that ergonomics is only
associated with computers. However, ergonomic principles can be applied to any
task that puts your body to work, from doing your household chores to the daily
routines of your job.
Ergonomics is used to eliminate or reduce the wear and tear on the body that may
cause a task to become difficult or painful. Ergonomically designed work
processes, tools, equipment and workstations are adapted to the capabilities and
limitations of the human body. When ergonomic principles are applied in a
workplace, they improve efficiency and productivity, increase job satisfaction
and reduce the risk of fatigue, short-term pain and chronic illnesses, such as
work-related
musculoskeletal disorders.
Ergonomic job design
Work that is ergonomically designed includes these important elements:
| • | task variety –
alternating tasks within a job minimizes repetitive activities and reduces
wear and tear on the body
| | • | appropriate work pace
– when the pace of work is too fast, the body has very little recovery time
between repetitive or forceful movements
| | • | work breaks – resting,
stretching or changing position between tasks helps prevent muscle fatigue
and injury
| | • | rest breaks – stopping
work for a period time during the day provides an important physical and
mental break
| | • | training and education
– acquiring the appropriate skills to do a job safely and efficiently
prevents accidents and injury
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Ergonomic basics
Many ergonomic solutions are low-tech and common sense – simple changes can make
a big difference. Here are some tips to help you improve the ergonomics of your
work area:
| • | keep tools, materials, equipment in
easy reach
| | • | work at proper heights in relation to
your body – use adjustable workstations (chairs, tables, platforms)
| | • | work in a good, comfortable posture
| | • | reduce excessive repetition in tasks
and activities
| | • | avoid excessively forceful movements –
e.g. striking computer keys with too much force, twisting or jerking to lift
heavy loads
| | • | minimize general fatigue by taking
appropriate work and rest breaks
| | • | avoid direct pressure on legs, feet and
hands
| | • | maintain a comfortable environment
(heat, light, humidity)
| | • | organize work processes efficiently
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