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Workstation Setup

The correct layout of your workstation is critical to preventing musculoskeletal injuries and ensuring an efficient job and workplace. Workstation layouts that do not match the worker and his or her job demands will cause awkward and static postures. These include work areas where you have to continually reach or bend for items, or a work surface that is too high or low.

 

Correct workstation setup

Workstations should be designed so that workers can carry out their work in a comfortable, upright position with shoulders relaxed and upper arms close to the body. Different workers require different working heights so it is best to provide adjustable workstations to make the work height suitable for the person and the task.

Workstation Setup

 

Chairs

Chairs should be fully adjustable to accommodate different sized workers, and should be equipped with a swivel base and controls to allow adjustment of seat height; back rest height and back rest tilt adjustments. Chairs should also have a five-point base to ensure stability. Castors should be used on carpet and glides or braked castors should be used on hard surfaces.

Chair1

 

Desks

Desks should also be height adjustable to suit different people and also to provide adequate knee and leg clearance under the work surface to suit larger workers. Desks should also be large enough to cater for all necessary equipment, but not too large as to make reaching distances unsuitable for shorter workers.

workstation2

 

Reach capacity

The desktop can be broken up into broad reach sectors according to the capacity of the seated worker to reach equipment necessary for their work. The optimum sector (closest to the worker) is where the hands operate for most of the time, and is where equipment that is frequently used should be positioned (ie keyboard, mouse, phone etc).

When space is needed for writing the worker should be able to easily move equipment such as the keyboard out of this area to create space. Alternatively the desk should be large enough for the worker to move the chair to a different part of the desk so the hands can function close to the body.

The maximum reach sector is where the worker can use his or her shoulder and arm to retrieve and deposit equipment and materials (such as reports, folders etc). Heavy items should not be stored at height in this area as excessive force may be required to lift them down. The outer reach sector requires extended reach where bending forward and possibly even rising from the chair is required to reach an item, and as such is only suitable for occasional reaches.

Where possible, the workstation layout should be rearranged with frequently used equipment and materials located closer to the user, or alternatively relocated to another desk or bench for better access.

 

Self–Assessment checklist

A self assessment checklist is available for use by managers, supervisors and workers to identify and correct workstation issues. By evaluating your tasks, environment and work systems, changes can be made to make them more compatible with the needs, abilities and limitations of the human body.

After completing the checklist, identify the areas that require improvement and forward the checklist to the relevant manager or supervisor for review and action. Managers and supervisors should also download and complete the checklist when setting up new workstations for workers. Should you require specialised advice please contact the Safety and Environment Unit.

 

Laptops/Notebooks/Tablets

Computers such as laptops, notebooks and tablets are designed for short-term or mobile use, however their portable nature results in their use in a wide variety of settings where the working height is unsuitable (ie: workers laps, kitchen table, car bonnets etc). Also, a lack of adjustability of the screen and keyboard can result in the arms being held too high or the neck bent to view the screen. These postures if held frequently or for long periods can result in discomfort and possible injury over time. Reflections can also be an issue when the screen is tilted upwards. Carrying these computers may also contribute to back and neck problems.

Adverse effects of mobile computer usage may be prevented by:

  • Docking the computer into a desktop computer at an adjustable workstation.
  • Connecting into existing computing equipment, such as the screen, keyboard and mouse.
  • Transferring information from the computer to a desktop computer for more extensive periods of work.
  • Being aware of the importance of posture when using these computers and frequently rotating between keying and other activities.
  • Becoming keyboard literate to avoid periods of time looking down at the keys, which can contribute to neck discomfort.

 

Workpace

Workpace is an application that can be used by staff to monitor keyboard and mouse activity. It is designed for the rehabilitation of and to aid in the prevention of computer related injuries such as Occupational Overuse Syndrome (OOS) and Upper Limb Disorder (ULD). The program contains in-built timers are configured to prompt the user to take short breaks known as micro pauses, and longer breaks or rest breaks. These reminders are activity based, so the higher the work intensity the more frequent the prompts.

The latest version of Workpace is available at CQUniversity to address the increasing costs of Occupational Overuse Syndrome Injuries, to prevent further injuries and as an education tool in managing keyboard and mouse activities. It is also be used in the management of any current or future occupational overuse injuries.

Managers, supervisors and staff are encouraged to use the program, and can obtain installation details from the Staff Portal Documents.

 

Additional Links

These links are external to CQUniversity and as such we have no control over the content. They may not reflect the view of CQUniversity and should be used as a guide only. Please contact a qualified health & safety person for advice.

 

Contributions

(The document ‘Officewise’ – WorkSafe Victoria was used in the production of this article)