It’s been just over one year since I started the ergolife blog to help people manage and prevent the pain and injury that result from long hours spent on computers and hand held devices. This partial summary of ergonomic topics covered in the past year can provide an overview and help direct you to areas of interest. A good place to start might be the quiz intended to help you understand your basic ergonomics awareness profile.
A discussion of what ergonomics actually is sets the stage for content that can be broken down into three broad categories: analysis, advice, and equipment.
Analysis
I analyze workspace organisation, habits and postures. For example, where somebody’s monitor is set up on their desk plays a role in determining their posture. I sometimes review products that help to increase awareness of postures and habits.
People have all sorts of different working arrangements. Many people work from home. Others commute to an office. Some offices are customised. Maybe you inherited an office or share one with somebody whose needs might be completely different to yours, even to the point of being harmful.
My first task when consulting with new clients is to analyze their current working arrangement to better understand 1. what they are doing that is causing the pain they are experiencing and 2. how to prevent future injury.
I tend to view the world through an ergonomics lens, and enjoy sharing my perspective with others. Sometimes cartoons or a look at how different cultures approach ergonomics can be effective. Other times it is necessary to analyze how much ergonomic injuries really cost us, or how much more productive we would be if we all learned to touch type.
Advice
After analysing what’s causing the discomfort you are experiencing, I offer suggestions for improvement. The majority of the articles on this blog offer advice on improving ergonomics, removing clutter, and decreasing your risk of injury.
Much has been written about the risks of sitting, but the truth is that there is no one best working posture. What’s important is avoiding sedentary behavior and I try to share tips on staying active during your work day.
Preventing fatigue is key to avoiding injury, especially repetitive strain injuries. Incorrect use of our mobile phones requires constant attention if we want to avoid neck pain.
Correct ergonomics not only reduces the risk of pain and injury, but also increases productivity.
Equipment
The right equipment can be a huge help to improving ergonomic habits. I look for solutions, like wearables and sit-stand workstations, and review products that I like.
But even the best equipment is no good unless it’s the best equipment for you. A quiz can help get you thinking about your ideal working posture and solutions that support it.SumS
Sometimes I look at specific equipment needs, like the needs of people who are taller than average. Regular furniture and equipment, no matter how high quality, is not suitable for them.
Topics You Want to See
Please Contact me if there are topics you want know more about, or if you would like to book a consultation. And don’t forget to sign up to my newsletter, where I regularly share new insights and ideas to help make your workplace more productive, pleasant and safe.