Work from Home Ergonomics

With the ongoing spread of COVID-19, many businesses are transitioning their employees to remote work. However, not everyone has a designated home office space for setting up their computer equipment properly. Instead, people are making do with kitchen tables, sofas, or folding tables. While these temporary workstations can get the job done, they often lack proper ergonomic support.

Poor ergonomics can lead to musculoskeletal issues like lower back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and tendinitis, as noted by the American Society of Safety Professionals. Ergonomics focuses on enhancing comfort, health, and productivity in the workplace, and there are small adjustments you can make to create a more ergonomic home office.

Here are some tips:

Position your monitor at or just below eye level, about an arm’s length away.
Keep your arms close to your body, with elbows resting comfortably at your sides. Float your hands above the keyboard to maintain straight wrists while typing.
Opt for a chair with proper back support.
Use a solid, flat surface such as a desk or table.
Keep your knees at a 90-degree angle, with your feet flat on the floor.
Avoid sitting or standing in the same position for too long. Shift your posture frequently and take micro-breaks away from the computer.
Stay hydrated throughout the day.

Working from the couch might sound appealing, but taking the time to set up a more ergonomic workspace can significantly reduce stress and strain. By incorporating these ergonomic practices, you can work more comfortably, prevent injuries, and boost productivity.

Sources:

Three Ergonomics Tips to Improve Your Home Office. American Society of Safety Professionals. July 2020. Retrieved 18 December 2020, from https://www.assp.org/news-and-articles/2020/07/23/three-ergonomics-tip-to-improve-your-home-office

Dorsey, J. (2020). Home Office Ergonomic Tips | Ithaca College. Retrieved 18 December 2020, from https://www.ithaca.edu/information-technology/working-remote/home-office-ergonomic-tips