Mary Harboe
06.03.07

Computer Ergonomics

The science that studies the relationship of humans to their working environment and seeks to improve working conditions and increase efficiency and reduce operator fatique and discomfort

Where to put the computer.

Many times there are no options. Especially in apartments. And they get squeezed into corners, with little thought given to any of the important ergonomic aspects.

One of the most important one is to be facing straight on to the monitor. With a large monitor many times it was put in a the curve of the desk or corner because they took up so much space and one would have to turn the head to look at it. This can cause a lot of fatigue to the neck area.
Be sure to be straight on to the monitor. Your eye level should be right below the top of the monitor.  This raises the monitor up higher than we would think but it is really important.  Put something under the base to raise it and you should be looking at the top part of the screen.

Glare
Ideally the light source from windows should come from your side not behind you or in front of you.  This reduces the glare factor which causes tremendous eye strain. If not possible cover the souce of light to reduce the glare.
As we all know florescent lighting is not a good source, incandescent is better but natural light is best.
Also when working for long periods so important to look away from the monitor often to reduce eye fatigue.

Desk
Need depth on the desk.  The monitor should be at least 75 centimeters away from you (30 inches)  this will protect you from electromagnetic radiation,  electromagnetic fields emitted by Cathode Ray Tubes ( large monitors)  the LCD flat screens do not emit these rays.

Chair
Support is most important ( and very individual).  Try to keep both feet flat on floor, crossing of legs not good.  Foot rest good if needed.

Keyboard
Right height important , don’t want too much bend at the wrist  I have mine on the desk with the monitor.
Keyboard should be at arms distance from you. So you need depth on the desk. Mouse and keyboard should be on same level..

Mouse
Hold mouse loosely, use a light touch when you click. Don’t’ raise your pinkie when using the mouse all fingers should be used.  Use whole arm and shoulder when moving the mouse not just your wrist.
Take breaks often, shake hands and fingers four or five times per hour.

Yes take breaks !
At  least once an hour get right up off your seat and walk around, stretch, breath etc get the blood flowing and stimulate the joints.

Carpel Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is an entrapment neuropathy of the wrist. It occurs when the median nerve, which runs through the wrist and enervates the thumb, pointer finger, middle finger and the thumb side of the ring finger, is aggravated because of compression. Symptoms include numbness, tingling and pain in the fingers the median nerve sensitizes.