Office Ergonomics: Slouching Can Harm Your Health

Be perfectly poised whether you are working at your desk or simply reading at home.

The slouch factor

 Continual bad posture causes:

 Ÿ Fatigue, headaches and breathing problems

 Ÿ Risk of arthritis due to improper bone alignment

 Ÿ Stress on the ligaments holding your spine

 Ÿ Neck and back pain

Form and Function

Ergonomics refers to fitting work and the work environment to suit the person. But even the best office furniture won't help you unless you follow these rules.

• Keep your shoulders relaxed when using the keyboard or mouse
• Adjust the height of your seat to achieve proper posture. Maintain your posture at 90 degrees or more at the hips and knees
• Sit on your chair with your back fully supported by the backrest
• Every now and then get off your chair and walk about
• Every now and then give your eyes a break by looking at a distant object
• Alternate between tasks that use different muscle groups
• Perform stretching exercises at your desk or even better, away from it
• Have the top of your screen at, or slightly below, eye level. The screen should be about one arm's length away
• Make sure your desk or work tray is high enough for leg room
• Your wrist should be relaxed when using the mouse, or use a wrist rest
• Use minimum force when typing on the keyboard
• Support your feet with a footrest if necessary
Ref: Z00