Practical Application

1. Walk through the facility and record the type of furniture and equipment at each workstation. Note whether desks and chairs are adjustable. Also note ergonomic risk factors such as glare on monitors, ill-fitting chairs, desk heights, and keyboard and computer mouse positions on the workstation surface.
2. Identify and implement no- and low-cost measures to improve position workstation comfort, such as workstation height adjustments, glare screens, headsets, keyboard and mouse trays, palm supports, and footrests.
3. Develop plans to provide ergonomic training to post occupants. The training sessions should cover topics including, but not limited to, how to adjust furniture; ways to minimize eyestrain from prolonged computer work; and workplace stretches to prevent pain, stiffness, and fatigue (see Resources: Office ergonomics: Your how-to guide – Mayo Clinic).
4. Refer occupants with complaints about back, neck, or other musculoskeletal discomfort to their supervisor to request an ergonomic assessment.
5. Plan and implement mid- to long-term improvements, such as replacing fixed furniture with adjustable furniture.

Figure 7: Features of an ergonomic workstation

Image Source: Occupational Safety and Health Administration