Environmental Health and Safety

Ergonomic Program Basics

Ergonomics is the study of the relationship between people, their work, and their physical work environment. The major goal of ergonomics is to optimize the work procedures and practices and the work environment to allow employees to perform at higher levels of efficiency while still maintaining their physical and mental well being.

The following exposures have been associated with ergonomic injuries:

• Typing for extended periods without a rest break
  
  
• Using force when typing or gripping the pointing device
  
  
• Working with awkward neck, shoulder, elbow, wrist, or back postures
  
  
• Remaining in the same position for a long time
  
  
• Continuous pressure on a body part
  
  

The following symptoms may be symptoms of an ergonomic injury:

• Reoccurring or continuous pain / discomfort
  
  
• Redness and swelling
  
  
• Limited range of motion
  
  
• Numbness or tingling sensation
  
  
• Decreasing hand grip strength
  
  

If you are already experiencing any of these symptoms:

• Report the symptoms to your Supervisor
  
  
• Your Supervisor will complete a Supervisor’s Report of Work Related Accident/Illness form
  
  
• The completed form will be sent to Human Resources
  
  

If you are concerned about your workstation design or have questions about adjusting your workstation to fit you:

• Inform your Supervisor before symptoms occur
  
  
• Contact EH’S at ext. 4-6778 to request an ergonomic evaluation