Office Ergonomics
Office Ergonomics is included in the EH&S/RM Manual, Section 13 .PDF
Working from Home? Here are some general ergonomic tips to help you set up your own personal workstation.
- General Safety
- Remove any trip hazards in your working space, tie up loose cords
- Use a chair or boxes to block access to the trip hazard if needed
- Don't overload outlets and use grounded extension cords
- Be aware of your surroundings and remove any dangerous items to protect children and
pets
- Using a Laptop? Don't hunch over it.
- Use a laptop stand or stack books to support the screen
- Use an external keyboard and mouse and keep everything at the correct height
- Prevent Wrist Wrinkles
- Use a gel wrist rest, to protect your wrists from hard surfaces
- Use a folded hand towel below your keyboard and mouse if you don't have a gel wrist
rest
- Monitor Use
- Follow the 20/20/20 Rule; for every 20 minutes of looking at the computer, look at
least 20 feet away for 20 seconds
- Place your monitor 90 degrees to the placement of windows to prevent glare
- Chair Comfort
- If you are uncomfortable in the chair you are sitting in, add back support like a
rolled towel or pillows for added padding on the seat
- Footrest Options
- Knees should be even with your hips and ankles at 90 degrees
- Use a footrest to keep the knees at hip height to help your lower back
- Do not tuck your feet under the seat, it stresses the knees
Need an Adjustment?
There are generally 3 types of office chairs on campus. Determine which type you
have and review how to adjust your chair.
Learn more at Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
Departments are responsible for providing a proper ergonomic workstation (an adjustable
chair and keyboard tray) upon hiring a new employee working at a computer.
If you are not able to resolve your concern and want to schedule a 30 minute Ergonomic
Evaluation, submit this form.
