Ergonomic Essentials Presented by : Sandra Shortt, RN Kathryn Carnegis February 19, 2004
Dec 16, 2015
In the News …
President Bush Cites Federal Workplace Injuries
Associated Press - Fri, Jan. 09, 2004
WASHINGTON - Workplace injuries by federal employees cost:
• More than $2 billion in workers' compensation losses• 168,000 injury claims• 2 million lost production days a year
"Clearly, government agencies should strive to do more to improve workplace safety and health and reduce the costs of injury to workers and taxpayers," Bush said in a memo to federal executives. “Many workplace injuries are preventable."
Overview
Definitions
Symptoms
Risk Factors
Prevention Workstation Workout Workstation Setup
Team Project
Resources & Questions
Symptoms (continued)
Swelling Joint Muscle
Weakened Grip
Weakness or Pain Neck Shoulders Back Arm Wrist Hand
Risk Factors
1. Repetitive motion
2. Confined or awkward workspace
3. Lifting and carrying heavy objects
4. Routinely working with power tools
!
Prevention
Seek early diagnosis and treatment for symptoms
Stretch everyday(sigh … )
Optimize your work environment Layout Equipment
Temporary Relief
Ibuprofen for pain and swelling Alternating ice/heat on affected area Consult physician promptly if
symptoms persist
Workstation Workout
Vision Focus exercise Eye rolling Cup palms over
closed eyes
Hands and Wrists Finger stretch & fist Fingertip exercises Thumb pull
* Frequent mini-exercise breaks are recommended
Workstation Workout (continued)
Neck and Back Head bends (side to side, forward and back)
Head turn Arms crossed at shoulders & shrug Arch with linked hands behind back Full extension (arms & legs as far out as you can)
User Setup
Chair Seat height & tilt Knees bent at 900
Feet flat Arms flat on desk Lower back against
chair back
Monitor 28-24” away from you Tilt to reduce glare
Keyboard & Mouse Placed so that
shoulders are relaxed Upper arms at sides Hands level with wrists
Office Supplies & Phone Place these items out
of armspread reach
Optional Equipment (continued)
Wrist or Hand Discomfort Wrist rest Wheeled mouse Ergonomic keyboard Wrist gloves
Optional Equipment (continued)
Back, Neck or Shoulder Discomfort Armed Chair Keyboard Tray Footrest Back support Telephone headset
Team Project
Break into groups of 3-4 people
Take turns arranging the workspace to “fit” each of you
Review recommendations