Health and Safety Workstation Ergonomics

Unit Progress:

Vision and monitor set-up

  • The monitor, keyboard and chair should be positioned in a straight linecomputer
  • The top of the monitor screen should be slightly below the eye horizon
  • The monitor should be positioned at a comfortable, non-straining distance to read (typically 380-760mm)
  • The brightness, contrast, and colour should be adjusted to a comfortable level
  • The monitor should be away from windows and direct lights to avoid any glare
  • Written work should be propped up near the monitor screen

 

Posture

  • Use an adjustable chair, keyboard tray or desk/table to achieve a straight hand: wrist: forearm posturepc posture
  • Keep upper and lower arms at a 90oangle to each other
  • Position the mouse as closely to the keyboard as possible to minimise reaching and twisting
  • Ensure that there is adequate leg clearance under the desk

Back support

  • Use a chair that provides lumbar (lower back) support and is adjustable to maintain an erect sitting posture
  • Chairs must be height adjustable
  • Feet must rest firmly on the floor or a footstool must be used to counterbalance the forces on the lower back