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environmental and Occupational Safety

Introduction to Ergonomics

Within these pages you will find useful information about:

Office Supply Buying Steps & Tips

First:  Use this interactive checklist to evaluate your current office equipment (adapted from Occupational Safety & Health Administration [OSHA]. (n.d.) Retrieved June 5, 2006 from www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/computerworkstations/checklist.html.
Example:   Open checklist in Adobe Acrobat Reader, read phrases and mark boxes accordingly.  Add comments as necessary, then save and/or print as needed.
Second: Check to see if your office has existing materials that could be modified.  (i.e., adjustable chairs)
Example: The height of your desk chair is too high and your feet do not rest firmly on the floor – adjust the height/tilt as necessary instead of purchasing a new chair.
Third: Request assistance, if necessary, by contacting the Environment & Occupational Safety (E&OS) office, at 229.293.6171, to set up an appointment to review equipment.
Example: Unsure about equipment positioning or options, contact E&OS office and receive appointment for office equipment review.  Find several available aspects that can be easily adjusted for better fit with office needs.
Fourth: If adjustments cannot be made and new items are required, check the Purchasing Services’ guidelines BEFORE buying materials.
Example: The height of your desk chair is too high and your feet do not rest firmly on the floor, chair is not adjustable – review Purchasing Services’ guidelines before buying foot stool.

The following are some additional tips for researching and purchasing office equipment.

Desk Lighting
  • Cord length should allow a variety of positions
  • Angle and intensity should be adjustable
  • Use bright light when reading printed materials
  • Use soft, focused light for computer tasks

 

Chairs
  • Height and tilt should be easily adjustable
  • Chairs that swivel 360 degrees minimize twisting
  • Edges should be padded
  • Armrests should be adjustable and/or removable
  • Chairs should have sturdy bases, especially chairs with wheels

 

Desks
  • Surface should be deep enough to accommodate commonly used items
  • Adjustable height is preferred (20-28 inches)
  • Legs should fit comfortably underneath, in a variety of positions
  • Matte finishes minimize glare

 

Telephones
  • Cord length should reach easily so user avoids twisting
  • If on the phone for extended periods use “hands free” options such as “speaker” or headset
  • “Hands free” options should have volume controls

 

Keyboards

  • Adjustable feet will provide a wider range of keyboard positions
  • Cords should be long enough to support a variety of positions
  • Consider size, especially if using a keyboard tray
  • Laptop keyboards may not be appropriate for prolonged typing tasks

 

Computer Monitors
  • Display should be big enough to view easily (15-20 inches)
  • Height and angle should be adjustable
  • Flat panel screens take up less desk space – appropriate when space is limited

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